CLP returned as NT Opposition in shock ballot
The NT Legislative Assembly has voted to make the Country Liberal Party the official Opposition over the Territory Alliance in shocking last minute ballot in parliament on Tuesday night.
Northern Territory
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THE NT Legislative Assembly has voted to make the Country Liberal Party the official Opposition over the Territory Alliance in shocking last minute ballot in parliament on Tuesday night.
CLP Opposition Leader Lia Finocchiaro moved a motion without notice in parliament on Tuesday night to conduct a ballot on who holds the NT Opposition status.
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It comes after Territory Alliance seized Opposition last Wednesday after independents Robyn Lambley and Jeff Collins joined and brought the party’s numbers of seats up to three compared to the CLP’s two.
The CLP and their staff were then instructed to move out of their fourth floor offices in parliament on Friday so the Territory Alliance could take them.
“I move that the party or group that holds Opposition remains unclear and declares therefore the office of the Opposition is vacant and conduct a ballot … to fill this vacancy,” Ms Finocchiaro said.
“Agrees that this ballot conducted be a choice between the Member for Spillet (Lia Finocchiaro) and the Member for Blain (Terry Mills) only and agrees the result of the ballot regardless of the numbers of members participating determines that the party of the successful candidate shall be the official Opposition and agrees that this resolution merely binds the 13th Assembly.”
Her motion was agreed to and result of the secret ballot saw Ms Finnochiaro recognised as the official Leader of the Opposition in the assembly with five votes to three.
Attorney-General Natasha Fyles said Labor MLAs would not participate in the vote.
Territory Alliance leader Terry Mills said he was concerned the assembly was proceeding with the ballot without adequate legal advice.
“I fear we’re walking into a place that’s leaving us exposed,” he said.
Territory Alliance deputy leader Robyn Lambley was outraged by the development.
“Lia this is illegal, it’s unconstitutional!” she said.
“It is not fair, just or democratic to proceed with this motion because it is in direct conflict with the Solicitor General’s advice.”
She called on Speaker Kezia Purick to clarify the decision.
“Madam speaker we haven’t been able to communicate with you at all since we became three on Wednesday morning,” she said.
“You have allowed us to assume the role of Opposition.”
The Speaker yelled out in response.
“Member of Araluen you’re wrong! I haven’t assumed anything,” she said.
“You had the three, you had your party. You took Opposition. The offices were changed, your salaries have been changed etc. I do not deem Opposition I do not give Opposition neither does the government.
“What happens in here is the will of the assembly.
“If your party has concerns you could take it to the Supreme Court.”
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