Premier Daniel Andrews rules out stepping down before 2022 state election
Premier Daniel Andrews has slapped down rumours that he would step down, saying he will lead Labor at the 2022 state election. It comes amid reports of growing discontent among state MPs.
Victoria
Don't miss out on the headlines from Victoria. Followed categories will be added to My News.
Premier Daniel Andrews has ruled out stepping down before the 2022 state election.
Addressing rumours within the Labor government that he was likely to stand down after the pandemic was over, Mr Andrews on Sunday, denied he would be giving up the top job.
When asked whether he will lead Labor at the 2022 election, Mr Andrews said: “Yes … I will.
“This job is a great honour. It is something I am 100 per cent committed to, there is a lot more that needs to be done, a lot more that needs to be built.”
Leadership rumours have dogged the government in recent weeks, with reports a growing number of MPs were unhappy with the lack of transparency occurring within the government.
This includes the formation of a smaller “super cabinet” made up of eight ministers.
There is also unhappiness toward a central group of decision makers within the Premier’s team, including the Department of Premier and Cabinet head Chris Eccles, strategist Ben Foster and chief of staff Lissie Ratcliff.
Government MPs have been musing about Mr Andrews stepping down and potentially being replaced by Transport Minister Jacinta Allan.
Other names in the mix included Attorney-General Jill Hennessy and Racing Minister Martin Pakula.
However, Mr Andrews slapped down the rumours definitively.
It comes after the state opposition faced similar rumours this month, with mounting gossip there were plans afoot to remove current leader Michael O’Brien.
The suggestion of the Coalition choosing a new leader during the pandemic has also been flatly denied.
MORE NEWS
NEW HOTEL QUARANTINE FAILURE REVEALED