NSW Liberals clash over council nominations amid Dutton"s leadership challenge

The New South Wales Liberal party is experiencing significant internal conflict as moderate members are accused of undermining federal leader Peter Dutton. This turmoil arose after the party failed to nominate candidates for 140 council seats, prompting federal intervention. The federal executive set a deadline for the NSW executive to appoint a three-person management committee, which led to Mark Speakman's proposal for a four-person panel aimed at achieving gender balance. This proposal has been met with resistance from conservative factions within the party, who view it as a challenge to Dutton's leadership. The proposal included two women, Peta Seaton and Fiona Scott, but faced backlash from some executive members who expressed concerns about the process and the qualifications of the proposed panel members. They accused Speakman of moving the proposal without proper notice and claimed that the meeting was not conducive to open debate. In contrast, other members defended the motion, emphasizing the importance of gender representation in the party's leadership. As the situation escalates, attention is now focused on an upcoming federal executive meeting that could potentially override Speakman's proposal. The ongoing factional infighting highlights deeper issues within the NSW division, as members grapple with the balance of power and representation. Ultimately, the outcome of this internal struggle will have significant implications for the party's ability to present a united front against the Labor government and to effectively compete in future elections.