In a stunning political development that has sent shockwaves through Canberra, Deputy Liberal Leader Jacinta Nampijinpa Price has been dramatically removed from her shadow portfolio responsibilities by Opposition Leader Sussan Ley.
The controversial senator, known for her outspoken views on Indigenous affairs, has been stripped of her shadow portfolios for Indigenous Australians and shadow cabinet position for health—a move that signals significant internal tensions within the Liberal Party.
Unexpected Political Fallout
The decision, communicated via a brief statement from Ley's office, cited the need for Price to focus on her "expanded responsibilities" as deputy leader. However, political insiders suggest the move reflects deeper ideological divisions within the Party regarding the Voice to Parliament and broader Indigenous recognition issues.
Price, who has been one of the most prominent conservative voices against the Indigenous Voice to Parliament, now finds herself without any portfolio responsibilities despite holding the second-highest position in the Party.
Strategic Reshuffle or Political Punishment?
Ley's office announced that Northern Territory senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price would be replaced by Victorian MP Keith Wolahan in the Indigenous Australians portfolio, while Queensland MP Angie Bell will take over the shadow health portfolio.
The timing of this decision raises eyebrows throughout political circles, coming just weeks after Price's prominent role in the failed Voice referendum campaign and amid growing speculation about the Liberal Party's future direction on reconciliation and constitutional recognition.
Mixed Reactions and Political Implications
Former Prime Minister Tony Abbott described the decision as "disappointing," while other conservative figures within the Party have expressed concern about the message this sends about diversity of opinion within the Liberal ranks.
Political analysts suggest this move could either consolidate Ley's leadership authority or create significant internal friction as the Party navigates its position on key policy issues ahead of the next federal election.
The reshuffle leaves many questioning whether this represents a strategic repositioning of the Liberal Party or simply the removal of a controversial figure whose views no longer align with the leadership's vision.
