Mark Parton Pledges to Unite Canberra Liberals
Former radio presenter and moderate Liberal Mark Parton has been unanimously elected as the new leader of the Canberra Liberals, following the resignation of Leanne Castley as opposition leader and Jeremy Hanson as deputy leader. Parton has also stepped down as Speaker of the Legislative Assembly to take on his new role.
"It's time for the Canberra Liberals to leave things behind,"
Parton declared, positioning himself as a unifying figure for a party that has faced internal divisions in recent weeks.
"I've been placed in this position as a unifier, and unify is what I will do,"
he said, emphasizing his commitment to healing rifts within the organization.
Focus on Rebuilding and Teamwork
Parton made clear he would not dwell on the recent leadership turmoil, instead directing attention to strengthening the party’s cohesion and vision for the future.
"I'm absolutely sick to death of having conversations about internal party matters, because I can tell you that people out in the suburbs are not having those conversations,"
he stated, underscoring his desire to shift the party’s discourse toward policies that matter to voters.
"I am here, along with Deborah Morris, to get nine parliamentary members on the same train heading forward so that we can take on the government in 2028,"
Parton added, outlining his goal of unity and preparation for the next election challenge.
He described his election as both "an honour and a privilege" and reaffirmed his intention to lead the party toward a stronger and more cohesive future.
"In the past, my party has been divided—as is the case with many political parties—often split by a line that separates the left and the right,"
he acknowledged, admitting the need to bridge ideological divides within the Liberals.
Author’s Summary
Mark Parton steps into leadership of the Canberra Liberals with a vow to end internal rifts and unite members behind a shared vision ahead of the 2028 election.