David Littleproud, the leader of the National Party, faces increasing scrutiny over his leadership following a series of contentious decisions and internal party dynamics. After his re-election on May 12, he became immediately embroiled in controversy. His controversial decision to break the Coalition with the Liberals has created quite a storm and is being labelled “really messy” by even former leader Michael McCormack.
Barnaby Joyce, another heavy hitter of the party, privately assured his caucus-mates that he would support McCormack should he contest another challenge to his leadership. This support comes on the heels of other progressive developments within the party. None of this support bodes well for Littleproud’s new leadership if party members are continuing to harbor discontent with their leader’s reign.
Leadership Questions Arise
Criticism of Littleproud’s leadership is intensifying as the questions about his judgment increases. One senior party source told us that “David is indefensible,” pointing to major fault lines in his grave decision-making. The recent upheaval, particularly the disbandment of the Coalition, has led many to question whether Littleproud can maintain authority within the party.
Though these obstacles would scare off most ministers, Littleproud is undeterred, claiming that he has done what the party room told him to do. He brushed off speculation regarding his position, stating that he will likely be “sitting on the backbenches with Barnaby Joyce,” suggesting a level of acceptance of his current standing within the party hierarchy.
Even as the musical chairs continues to play amid tensions, McCormack has retreated from any talk of an immediate leadership challenge. He stated clearly, “David Littleproud will not be challenged by me,” leaving open the question of whether his support might waver in the future. McCormack added that any final decision about support for Littleproud’s leadership now rests with the party room.
Dynamics of Party Relations
The relationship with the Nationals has been rocky since Littleproud cut and run. If this move has drawn national skepticism, it has stirred up internal discord. McCormack claimed credit for brokering a peace arrangement between both factions, indicating that he is still invested in maintaining unity despite the existing discord.
Victorian MP Sam Birrell defended Littleproud amidst swirling rumors, asserting, “David’s our leader and I don’t see that changing.” His comments are an indication that not all members of his party have given up on Littleproud. They think he can pilot the Nationals through what will likely be a very rocky interim.
This internal fracas only deepens the confusion over how united the Nationals really are as they chart their path forward. With heavyweights such as Joyce likely to support challengers to his leadership, Littleproud’s support among the party faithful remains on a knife edge.
The Future of Leadership
A Littleproud removal today is not in any immediate sense on the cards, according to multiple LNP sources dotting around the party. This does not negate the ongoing discussions about his leadership effectiveness. While some party members rally behind him, others express concerns about his capabilities and decision-making processes.
As Littleproud faces these mounting challenges, he doubles down and presses on toward the vision he holds for his party. His recent collaboration with Liberal Leader Sussan Ley to announce parallel shadow ministries suggests an effort to stabilize relationships and work towards common goals.
The deep-seated conflict is undeniable. McCormack further indicates that if things don’t start improving, the backing of Littleproud will soon begin to crumble. As leaders within the party decide how to move forward, the answers to all of this are yet to be revealed.
