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Criticizing the factional deal as a corrupt bargain

Published July 26, 2026 at 9:02 PM UTC

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Critics of the factional deal see it as a clear example of corrupt trading of political support for personal or factional advantage. The involvement of a former powerbroker, who has since moved to the UK and is avoiding the ICAC inquiry, only deepens suspicions, they say. The five Liberal MPs who backed the deal may have traded their votes or influence for promises of preselection or policy favours. Such backroom arrangements undermine public trust in democracy and give insiders unfair power over the party's direction. The ICAC probe is necessary to uncover the truth and hold those involved accountable. The powerbroker's absence is particularly telling, as it suggests an unwillingness to face scrutiny. If the deal is proven to be corrupt, the MPs should face consequences, and the Liberal Party must reform its internal practices to prevent future abuses. The integrity of political institutions depends on transparent and accountable behaviour.