Mark Parton Pledges to Unify Canberra Liberals
Former radio host and moderate Liberal Mark Parton has been unanimously chosen as the new leader of the Canberra Liberals, following the resignations of Leanne Castley and Jeremy Hanson. Upon his election, Parton stepped down as Speaker of the Legislative Assembly.
"I've been placed in this position as a unifier, and unify is what I will do," said Parton.
He urged his colleagues to move past internal disputes and focus on rebuilding unity within the party. Parton emphasized that public concerns were far removed from internal political conflicts.
"I'm absolutely sick to death of having conversations about internal party matters, because people in the suburbs are not having those conversations," he said.
Parton also highlighted his partnership with Deborah Morris in working to align all nine parliamentary members toward preparation for the 2028 election. He framed his leadership as an opportunity to focus on cooperation and future goals rather than past divisions.
"I believe that in the past, my party has been divided. There's no question that, like many political parties, ours has often been split between left and right," he noted.
He concluded by reaffirming his commitment to act as a unifying force for the party and to move forward with renewed purpose.
Author’s Summary
Mark Parton vows to steer the Canberra Liberals toward unity and future readiness after a period of internal discord and leadership turmoil.