Liberal Senator Questions Sussan Ley's Leadership amid Party Turmoil
A Liberal senator has expressed doubts about Opposition Leader Sussan Ley's leadership as the party faces internal conflict over net-zero emissions targets. The turmoil has sparked intense leadership speculation within the coalition.
Senator Sarah Henderson Voices Concern
Former frontbencher Sarah Henderson stated she can no longer support the current state of affairs, ahead of a crucial partyroom meeting scheduled for the coming week. She admitted to Sky News on Friday:
“I do have to say really honestly, I do think Sussan is losing support. But I do believe in miracles.”
When asked if the party could recover with Ms. Ley leading, Henderson paused and reiterated her inability to back the current direction.
“I'm not in the business of throwing anyone under the bus, I'm stating the bleeding obvious, we are in a dire situation. The infighting has been terrible and I'm terribly sorry about what's been going on in the Liberal Party.”
Response to Climate Policy and Leadership
Senator Henderson, who lost her shadow cabinet position after Sussan Ley assumed leadership, acknowledged Ley's efforts in convening meetings to finalize the party's stance on energy and climate policy as a promising step.
However, she strongly opposed the net-zero emissions policy, describing it as detrimental:
“I vehemently oppose net zero in all of its guises, it's sending our country backwards.”
Summary
The Liberal Party struggles with leadership doubts and internal clashes as it seeks consensus on climate policy, with significant opposition within its ranks to current strategies.
Author's takeaway: The Liberal Party’s leadership is under strain, reflecting deep divisions over climate policy and party unity ahead of a pivotal meeting.