Mark Speakman, the leader of the New South Wales (NSW) Opposition, has resigned from his position following mounting pressure from within the Liberal Party. His resignation on March 7, 2024, marks the second departure of a state Liberal leader in just three days. Speakman’s announcement came during a media conference, where he confirmed his decision after earlier cancelling scheduled interviews amid speculation about an impending leadership spill.
Two potential successors are already in the mix: Kellie Sloane, the Member for Vaucluse, and former minister Alister Henskens, both of whom are preparing for a leadership ballot that is expected to take place soon. Speakman’s resignation reflects a broader trend of instability within the NSW Liberal Party, which has faced challenges in recent months.
During the media conference, Speakman acknowledged that conversations had taken place regarding his leadership, but he insisted that he had not been formally approached. He noted, “Reports of my death are grossly exaggerated and I’m here to fight,” echoing a sentiment from 19th-century American author Mark Twain. Despite his earlier defiance, the internal dynamics of the party ultimately led to his decision to step down.
Challenges Facing the NSW Liberals
The resignation comes at a critical time for the NSW Coalition, which has been grappling with its image and effectiveness as an opposition party. An anonymous Liberal MP suggested that the party needed a leadership change to improve its chances of winning government. “It’s not about the individual, it’s about the team,” the MP stated, emphasizing the need for a united front as the party prepares for upcoming elections.
Independent MP Rod Roberts characterized the situation as reminiscent of a “Game of Thrones” scenario, underscoring the urgency for the Liberals to solidify their leadership structure with a state election less than 18 months away. The party requires one-third of its sitting members to agree to a meeting to allow for a leadership challenge, which adds an additional layer of complexity to the situation.
The recent turmoil within the NSW Liberals mirrors events in Victoria, where Brad Battin was recently ousted as leader, replaced by first-term MP Jess Wilson. Speakman also pointed to the challenges faced by federal colleagues, suggesting that ongoing infighting has damaged the Liberal brand. “We’ve taken a lot of brand damage from the turmoil in Canberra since then, and our job is to make sure we get clean air,” he remarked.
Future Leadership Prospects
As the party looks ahead, Sloane is considered a credible challenger for Speakman’s former role, having been elected to parliament in 2023. Henskens, on the other hand, has garnered support from the right faction within the party. The internal struggle for leadership is not only pivotal for the party’s future but also for its public image as it seeks to regain the trust of voters.
In the midst of these developments, the NSW Liberals have committed to achieving net-zero greenhouse emissions by 2050, a stance that sets them apart from their federal counterparts. This commitment could play a significant role in shaping their platform as they move forward.
The recent changes in leadership within the NSW Coalition highlight the ongoing challenges and dynamics that political parties face. With Speakman’s departure, the stage is set for a new chapter in the NSW Liberals’ journey as they navigate the complexities of governance and public perception in the lead-up to the next election.
