The Australian Democrats were notified this morning of David Winderlich's challenge - recruit 1,000 members or he will go independent.
National President Julia Melland rejected this ultimatum as a massive sign of disloyalty to the party, and demanded Mr Winderlich resign his seat in parliament immediately.
"We owe David Winderlich nothing. We are not going to rush our rebuilding plans just because he clearly doesn't believe in the party.
"He would not be in parliament if it weren't for the Australian Democrats allowing him that privilege, and as he does not respect those who have given him that privilege, he should resign his seat in parliament immediately."
Ms Melland said the party's extensive rebuilding efforts are going well, and are currently focused on fixing the underlying structural problems that resulted in the party's decline.
"Previously the party membership was largely focused on support for an individual Senators and other parliamentarians, and the functions of the party largely dependent on their staff. As part of our rebuild plans we have been expressly working towards an organisational structure that is not dependent on the cult of personality.
"If we were to comply with Mr Winderlich's ultimatum then we would only have more people who are members because they support him - rather than supporting the ideals of the party. This is not healthy for our long term prospects, and demonstrates the political naiveté of Mr Winderlich."
"The Australian Democrats are far from dead. We have a very good strategic plan for rebuilding the party, guided by professional consultants, that is making good headway on what is a very tough road to resurgence. This latest act of disloyalty by Mr Winderlich is unfortunate, but will not disrupt our rebuilding plans." Ms Melland concluded.
Contact:
Julia Melland
President, Australian Democrats
Julia.melland@democrats.org.au
Tel 0431 357 585
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