Contest a big test for govt and CLP

The looming by-election in the rural seat of Daly is shaping up as the first real test for both the Labor incumbents and their CLP opponents.

THE looming by-election in the rural seat of Daly is shaping up as the first real test for both the Labor incumbents and their CLP opponents, since Michael Gunner got back in last year.

Neither party has had a chance to properly test their trajectory with voters and this contest is likely to set the tone for the next three years until the next election.

In the midst of this, it needs to be said that our thoughts go out to Ian Sloan, who from all accounts was a dedicated local member during his year representing the electorate.

As the Opposition Leader said yesterday, it takes courage to admit to yourself it’s time to bow out.

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We wish him well battling his health issues.

Once Mr Sloan formally resigns later this month, the directives are ­issued and we will know the by-election date.

But already we have politicians drawing up the battle lines for the contest.

Lia Finocchiaro refused to say whether she was confident the CLP would retain the seat, saying the focus was currently on Mr Sloan.

In a stunning contrast, Deputy Chief Minister Nicole Manison fired the opening salvo by claiming Ms Finocchiaro wanted to give away the Territory’s vaccines and would’ve opened the borders if she’d been chief minister.

Let the games begin.