URGENT UPDATE: A leadership crisis is unfolding within the Liberal Party as tensions escalate over the future of Sussan Ley. Following a controversial demand from David Littleproud to replace her, the party is preparing for a critical vote during its meeting on February 3.
This situation is heating up just as Parliament reconvenes, with a vote to potentially remove Ley widely expected. Frontrunners to succeed her include Angus Taylor and Andrew Hastie, who are both weighing their options amid the chaos. Ley faces fierce criticism for her leadership decisions, particularly her call for Parliament to be recalled after the Bondi terror attack and her fluctuating stance on Labor’s anti-hate legislation.
Littleproud’s declaration that remaining in coalition with the Liberals under Ley’s leadership is “untenable” has ignited outrage among party members. His comments are perceived as an unwarranted intervention in Liberal affairs, prompting a backlash. One insider remarked, “The second he doesn’t get what he wants, he throws a tantrum.”
Despite the mounting pressure, Liberal insiders express hesitation to act too swiftly. Many are concerned about appearing to capitulate to Littleproud’s demands, complicating the decision-making process. Notably, Taylor has been vacationing in Europe, attempting to distance himself from the internal turmoil in Canberra, while Hastie must consider the demands of a leader’s travel schedule, especially with young children at home.
Moderate MP Tim Wilson is also contemplating a run for either the leadership or deputy role, with conversations among potential candidates already underway to gauge support.
Ley remains defiant amid the criticism, asserting she will survive as opposition leader. In a statement, she emphasized her commitment to the party despite the flood of dissenting voices.
Additionally, some party members have suggested that Littleproud himself may need to be removed to facilitate a “reset” and repair the fractured coalition between the two parties.
As the situation develops, all eyes will be on the Liberal Party’s meeting on February 3, where the fate of Sussan Ley could be decided. The implications of this leadership challenge could reverberate across Australian politics, making immediate attention crucial for both party members and the public.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds.
