'Leave s--- behind': leader makes impassioned pledge to unify party in turmoil

Mark Parton Vows to Unite a Divided Liberal Party

Former radio presenter and centrist Liberal politician Mark Parton has taken over as the new opposition leader of the Canberra Liberals, following a period of internal turmoil. Parton, unanimously elected by his colleagues, also resigned from his position as Speaker of the Legislative Assembly to assume the leadership role.

“It’s time for the Canberra Liberals to leave the past behind,” said Mark Parton, presenting himself as a unifying presence for the party.

The leadership change came after Leanne Castley stepped down as opposition leader and Jeremy Hanson resigned as deputy leader. Their resignations followed internal disputes that saw two party members suspended less than two weeks earlier.

“I’ve been placed in this position as a unifier, and unify is what I will do,” Parton stated. “I’m absolutely sick to death of talking about internal party matters. People in the suburbs aren’t having those conversations.”

Alongside deputy leader Deborah Morris, Parton emphasized his goal of uniting the nine Liberal members of the Legislative Assembly to focus on challenging the government in the 2028 election. He said it was both an honour and a privilege to lead the party and reiterated his commitment to moving beyond factional disputes.

“In the past, my party has been divided — often along ideological lines between left and right,” he said. “Now it’s time to move forward.”

Author’s Summary

Mark Parton pledged to heal divisions and refocus the Canberra Liberals on future elections after assuming leadership following major internal resignations.

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Braidwood Times Braidwood Times — 2025-11-10

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