Coffs Harbour MP Gurmesh Singh has swept into the leadership of the NSW Nationals, claiming the top job less than a day after the party was thrown into turmoil.
In a rapid-fire turnaround, Mr Singh was elected unopposed at an early morning party room meeting on Tuesday, just a day after former leader Dugald Saunders abruptly quit the role.
Tamworth MP Kevin Anderson was also elevated without challenge, securing the deputy leadership after what insiders described as a “fluid” and fast-moving contest that continued until minutes before the vote.
Mr Singh, a blueberry and macadamia farmer turned conservative MP, was reported to be the only member ringing colleagues about the leadership on Monday.
More to come.
