URGENT UPDATE: Former Nationals leader Barnaby Joyce has officially quit 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, though he plans to complete his current term. This sudden departure raises significant questions about the future of the party as tensions within the Coalition escalate.
In a candid letter to branch members, Joyce expressed, “My relationship with the leadership of the Nationals in Canberra has unfortunately, like a sadness in some marriages, irreparably broken down.” His resignation comes on the heels of ongoing disputes regarding the party’s stance on net zero emissions, a policy he has vocally opposed.
Joyce was demoted from the party’s frontbench by current leader David Littleproud earlier this year, marking a pivotal shift in his political trajectory. Following his resignation, there are unconfirmed reports that he may consider joining Pauline Hanson’s One Nation, stating, “I am free to now consider all options as to what I do next.” This comment hints at potential future political maneuvers that could reshape the political landscape.
The former deputy prime minister has been a fierce critic of the Coalition’s commitment to reducing Australia’s emissions to net zero by 2050. He emphasized the negative impact of this policy on his constituents, saying, “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.” His comments reflect deep frustrations that resonate with many voters who feel similarly impacted.
Joyce’s exit follows the recent resignation of Liberal leadership aspirant Andrew Hastie, who also criticized his party’s approach to net zero emissions. This trend of dissent within the Coalition suggests an increasingly divided front as the parties grapple with their environmental policies, potentially alienating voters.
The Nationals’ decision to restrict Joyce from campaigning outside his electorate during the last federal election has been a sore point for him, further straining his relationship with party leadership. This latest development is likely to fuel ongoing discussions about the direction of the party and the broader implications for the Coalition.
As Joyce steps away from the Nationals, political analysts and party members will be closely watching to see how this impacts the upcoming elections and the future of the Coalition. His resignation not only signifies personal turmoil but also reflects wider issues within the party that could resonate through Australian politics for years to come.
With this urgent shift in the political landscape, all eyes are on Barnaby Joyce as he considers his next move. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
