BREAKING NEWS: Former Nationals leader Barnaby Joyce has announced his resignation from the party, citing a complete breakdown in relationships with its leadership. The high-profile MP for New England confirmed he will not seek re-election, although he intends to complete his current term.
In an urgent letter to party members, Joyce expressed deep disappointment: “My relationship with the leadership of the Nationals in Canberra has unfortunately, like a sadness in some marriages, irreparably broken down.” This dramatic exit is shaking the political landscape and raises questions about the future direction of the party.
Reports suggest that Joyce may consider aligning with Pauline Hanson’s One Nation, although he has not confirmed this in his statement. “I am free to now consider all options as to what I do next,” he stated, hinting at potential shifts in allegiances that could reshape Australia’s political fabric.
Earlier this year, Joyce was demoted from the party’s frontbench by current leader David Littleproud, a move that has been seen as a contributing factor to this turmoil. Joyce has been a vocal critic of the party’s commitment to net zero emissions by 2050, labeling it a point of contention that has hurt his electorate and small businesses.
“Our position in continuing to support net zero with the massive schism and hurt to my electorate, to small businesses, to the environment, to the poor, to the defence of Australia and creating hate between lifelong friends in my community makes continuing in the Nationals’ Party Room in Canberra under this policy untenable,” he declared.
Joyce’s departure comes on the heels of Andrew Hastie resigning from the Coalition frontbench after criticizing the party’s stance on net zero. This pattern of discontent within the ranks raises concerns about the future stability of the Coalition and its policies.
The fallout from Joyce’s resignation could have immediate implications for the Nationals Party and its electoral prospects. As party members and constituents react, the political landscape in Australia is shifting rapidly.
Political analysts are urging observers to watch closely as this situation develops. Will Joyce’s next steps impact the upcoming elections? What will this mean for the Nationals’ future policies on climate change?
Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds.
