Arabic version: تم اختيار ديفيد فارلي كمرشح لحزب وان نيشن في انتخابات فاري

One Nation has selected agricultural businessman David Farley to contest the Farrer by-election in New South Wales scheduled for May. According to ABC News, the by-election was triggered after the ousting of former Liberal Party leader Sussan Ley who then resigned as the local member.

Farley, 69, emerged victorious in a preselection contest held at the Albury Entertainment Centre, defeating two other candidates. He expressed optimism about the opportunity to represent Farrer, emphasizing the significance of the electorate for Australia as a whole.

Key issues on Farley’s campaign agenda include water and power, which he views as essential for addressing drought mitigation and supporting the food supply chain. He aims to shift the narrative around water from being seen as an environmental asset to a vital sovereign asset.

One Nation leader Pauline Hanson highlighted that this is the first time a branch has selected its own candidate. She criticized the government’s handling of rural and regional issues, asserting that climate change threatens these areas and the farming sector.

The Farrer by-election is significant as the seat has traditionally been held by the Coalition. The Liberal Party has yet to nominate a candidate, while the Nationals are set to announce theirs soon. Notably, Labor is not expected to field a candidate, which Hanson claims is a strategic move by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to avoid a poor showing in the polls.