Nationals leader Barnaby Joyce is facing multiple challenges to his leadership with both Darren Chester and David Littleproud announcing they’ll be putting their hands up for the role.
While the Nationals didn’t lose any seats at the recent federal election, the Coalition lost government with the Liberal party experience huge losses to Labor, The Greens and independent members. Traditionally after an election The Nationals declare all party positions vacant with leaders required to show they still have the support of their colleagues.
Barnaby Joyce, who reclaimed the leadership from Michael McCormack in 2021, is hoping to continue on as leader but he’s facing challenges from both current deputy David Littleproud and Darren Chester.
Littleproud announced he’d informed Joyce of his intention to nominate saying Joyce had served the party for many years, but it was time for him to put himself forward.
“I feel this is the appropriate time to put myself forward for my party room’s consideration as their leader.
“Ultimately, this is a decision on who will lead the Nationals to the 2025 election.” Littleproud said.
Darren Chester said the election has shown that people wanted a different kind of politics in the future.
“Australians want a calmer, moderate and more respectful political debate which is focused on policies, not personalities,” Chester said in a statement on Facebook.
The politicians are set to meet on Monday to decide who will be the leader in the future. Anne Webster have indicated she will out herself forward for the Deputy role, and it is speculated that former leader Michael McCormack might also throw his hat in the ring for the top job.
OIP Staff
You can support our work by subscribing to our Patreon
or contributing to our GoFundMe campaign.
