Nicole Manison to bid for Chief Minister role after Natasha Fyles’ resignation
Nicole Manison has revealed she will lobby her Labor colleagues for their support to install her as Chief Minister, but she might not be the only one.
Northern Territory
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Nicole Manison has confirmed her intention to lobby for the role as the Northern Territory’s new Chief Minister in the wake of Natasha Fyles’ resignation, with colleague Chansey Paech also hinting at having a crack.
The Deputy Chief Minister, who was holidaying in Bali as Ms Fyles announced she would resign, is expected to return to the NT on Wednesday.
First elected in her seat of Wanguri in 2013, Ms Manison has been the Deputy Chief Minister since 2016 and was briefly Acting Chief Minister after Michael Gunner resigned in May 2022.
Ms Manison, who is the Minister for Industry and Trade; Renewables and Energy; Mining; Agribusiness and Fisheries; and Essential Services, said it was a “difficult day”.
“Today my good friend Natasha Fyles has made the decision to resign as Chief Minister of the Northern Territory,” Ms Manison said.
“As always, Tash has put the Territory first. This is a difficult day and I am proud of her for putting Territorians first.”
Ms Manison said over the next few days, she would “be asking my colleagues for their support to be Chief Minister so that I can serve you”.
“More than ever, we need experienced and proven leadership that focuses on the things that matter most to Territorians,” she said.
“I believe I can offer that.”
Ms Manison said as Chief Minister, she would focus on creating jobs for Territorians, providing support to help with the cost of living, and “keep working to make the Territory safer”.
“We have a lot to be proud of in the Territory and a lot to protect,” she said.
“Territory Labor can only deliver more jobs, better services and a decent standard of living when we are in government.
“If I’m fortunate enough to serve you as Chief Minister, I will work hard every day for Territorians.”
On Tuesday evening, Attorney-General Chansey Paech thanked Ms Fyles and hinted at a potential run at the leadership position.
“I’d like to acknowledge the work Natasha has done for the Territory as Chief Minister but also in her Ministerial portfolios,” he said.
“She’s made an enormous contribution and will continue to do so as the Member for Nightcliff.”
Mr Paech said he would keep his “options open”.
“I’ve always worn my heart on my sleeve when it comes to my passion for the Territory,” he said.
“I would like to say as far as the future goes, I’m keeping my options open, having discussions with colleagues and friends, and will let you all know my decision when I’ve carefully considered the best interests of Territorians and the Territory.”
The NT News understands from Labor sources Infrastructure Minister Joel Bowden may also be in the mix to replace Ms Fyles.
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Originally published as Nicole Manison to bid for Chief Minister role after Natasha Fyles’ resignation
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