NSW Nationals Leader John Barilaro announces he will resign as NSW Deputy Premier at Parliament House in Sydney on October 4,2021.Credit:Dominic Lorrimer
Mr Barilaro said his ongoing defamation case involving YouTube personality Jordan Shanks-Markovina was a major factor in his decision to resign. He said the case had seen him forced to defend himself “from vile and racist attacks in a social media setting “
He said he would formally resign as leader and call for a ballot at a party room meeting on Wednesday,before a byelection is triggered in his seat of Monaro.
Mr Barilaro also ruled out a tilt at federal politics,having last year considered running for the seat of Eden-Monaro.
Treasurer Dominic Perrottet has struck a deal with the party to nominate as the next Premier.Credit:Nick Moir
“I have no intention and no will[to run] for Eden-Monaro or for federal politics,” Mr Barilaro said.
“I’m looking to a new career. I turn 50 in November,maybe a bit of a midlife crisis,but definitely thinking about what happens next. I will take some time out,but I genuinely won’t be running for federal politics”.
It is the latest development in a chaotic few days at NSW Parliament,after Ms Berejiklian was named as the subject of a public corruption inquiry to be held later this month.
Loading
The probe will examine whether she breached the public trust or encouraged the occurrence of corrupt conduct during her secret relationship with disgraced former MP Daryl Maguire.
Ms Berejiklian resigned hours after the Independent Commission Against Corruption announced its investigation on Friday,saying she had “been given no option” but to resign.
NSW Transport Minister Andrew Constance also announced his resignation from state politics on Sunday,revealing his intention to nominate for preselection for the federal seat of Gilmore with Prime Minister Scott Morrison’s backing.
After a deal was struck late Sunday,Treasurer Dominic Perrottet confirmed he would nominate to be premier with Jobs Minister Stuart Ayres his surprise running mate,however a ballot of Liberal MPs will be needed on Tuesday,with Planning Minister Rob Stokes digging in and remaining in the race.
Loading
In a statement on Monday Mr Perrottet said he was “deeply saddened at the loss of a close friend and formidable colleague” in Mr Barilaro.
“However I know it is a decision John has been considering for some time,and I understand and support him in his decision,” Mr Perrottet said.
“This is an important opportunity to inject new energy and leadership across the government so that we can continue the work of the NSW Liberals and Nationals.”