Moderate Liberal Takes Leadership After Party Turmoil
A moderate Liberal has assumed control of one of the party’s weakest branches following the sudden resignation of its two leaders. Mark Parton now leads the Canberra Liberals after Leanne Castley and her deputy, Jeremy Hanson, stepped down on Monday.
Ms. Castley and Mr. Hanson resigned, stating that this change would give the Liberals the best chance to govern in 2028. Earlier, Ms. Castley had replaced then-Liberal leader Elizabeth Lee after the October 2024 election loss.
“In the spirit of ensuring a genuine fresh start for the new team, we will not be commenting publicly on the circumstances that have led to this decision,” Ms. Castley said in a statement.
The Canberra Liberals have struggled politically for over twenty years and are expected to have been in opposition for nearly 27 years by the 2028 election.
The more conservative Deborah Morris has been appointed as deputy leader.
“It's vital that we continue to strengthen the cohesion within our party,” Mr. Parton said in a statement. “By encouraging open dialogue, valuing diverse perspectives, and finding common ground, we can reinforce our shared purpose.”
The Canberra Liberals face ongoing criticism for being too conservative for the progressive ACT, where the party has no federal representation.
Author's summary: Mark Parton takes the helm of the struggling Canberra Liberals amid leadership resignations, aiming to unify the party and improve chances in the 2028 election.