As pressure mounts from rebel MPs, speculation grows over a leadership challenge against John Pesutto, linked to Moira Deeming’s defamation case

John Pesutto’s leadership of the Victorian Liberal Party is under increasing scrutiny as a group of dissenting MPs considers a potential challenge that could unfold as early as next week. The internal upheaval comes as Pesutto defends himself against a defamation lawsuit filed by former Liberal MP Moira Deeming, who was expelled from the party earlier this year.

In recent weeks, Pesutto has found himself embroiled in a courtroom battle, and sources within the party suggest that the defamation trial has contributed to growing dissatisfaction among his colleagues. Despite his claims of having the support of the party room, insiders indicate that a faction of MPs is keen to replace him by the end of the year.

“I’m confident that the team wants to continue the work we’ve been doing. I take nothing for granted,” Pesutto stated during a press conference outside the Federal Court, where he has been defending the allegations made by Deeming. He emphasised his respect for the party’s internal processes, asserting that he was unaware of any concerted efforts to remove him from his leadership role.

However, dissent is brewing. Several MPs have voiced their concerns about Pesutto’s ability to unite the party during this turbulent period. One anonymous MP expressed that the ongoing defamation proceedings have been detrimental, stating, “Internal Liberal matters should stay in house and not be played out in a courtroom. This has been a terrible period for the party, and he has no one but himself to blame.”

To mount a leadership challenge, Pesutto’s opponents would need to gather 16 votes from fellow MPs to successfully move a motion to suspend standing orders and initiate a leadership spill. Discussions among rebel MPs suggest that they may be ready to act when Parliament resumes next week.

“I think we have the numbers now, but if it doesn’t get up, we’re not too concerned,” one MP revealed, hinting at a coordinated effort to challenge Pesutto’s leadership in the near future. “I think we will have the numbers before Christmas.”

Despite the unrest, Pesutto has reiterated his commitment to leading the party into the next election, scheduled for 2026. He acknowledges the responsibility bestowed upon him by his colleagues and maintains that he is always open to their feedback and support.

“I’m always answerable to my colleagues, and I only have this responsibility because my parliamentary colleagues conferred that on me when I stood for leader, and I’m always humbled by that,” he remarked, reflecting on the challenges he faces as leader of the Victorian Liberals.

As the situation unfolds, the political landscape within the Victorian Liberal Party remains dynamic. Pesutto’s ability to navigate this period of discontent will be pivotal as he seeks to retain control and prepare the party for future electoral contests. The looming defamation trial, along with internal party tensions, raises questions about the direction of the party and the leadership style of its current leader.

The next few weeks could prove crucial for Pesutto. If no leadership challenge emerges next week, speculation suggests that one could arise before the Christmas break, keeping the political atmosphere charged as the party grapples with its identity and vision moving forward.

As the dust settles from the ongoing court proceedings and internal discussions, the Victorian Liberals are at a crossroads. Will Pesutto emerge stronger from this trial, or will the mounting pressure lead to a shift in leadership? The coming days will reveal the path forward for the party as it navigates these critical challenges.