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

New Opposition Leader Pledges Unity for Canberra Liberals

Mark Parton, a former radio presenter and moderate Liberal, has been unanimously elected as the new opposition leader of the Canberra Liberals. He vowed to unite the party amid recent turmoil.

Leadership Changes After Internal Disputes

The leadership shift followed the resignations of Leanne Castley as opposition leader and Jeremy Hanson as deputy leader. This occurred less than two weeks after Castley suspended two party members.

Parton's Commitment to Unity

“I've been placed in this position as a unifier, and unify is what I will do,”

Parton emphasized his focus on bringing the party together, saying he is tired of internal conflicts distracting from public concerns.

“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.”

Looking Toward Future Elections

Alongside Deborah Morris, Parton aims to rally the party’s nine parliamentary members to focus on challenging the government in 2028.

“I am here... to get nine parliamentary members on the same train heading forward so that we can take on the government in 2028.”

Focus on Moving Forward

Parton declined to comment on the events leading to the leadership change, emphasizing instead the need to move the party forward after past divisions.

“I believe that in the past, my party has been divided ... often divided by a line that separates the left and the right.”

Parton’s Dedication

He expressed honor and gratitude for being elected by his colleagues to lead the Canberra Liberals.

“It is an absolute honour and a privilege to have been elected by my colleagues to lead the party.”

Summary: Mark Parton has become the new Canberra Liberals leader, pledging to overcome internal divisions and unify his party to focus on the 2028 election challenge.

Braidwood Times — 2025-11-10