LOWAN MP Emma Kealy will continue on as Deputy Leader of The Victorian Nationals after its leader, Peter Walsh advised the party room he would step down yesterday.

Gippsland South MP, Danny O’Brien, has been elected unopposed as the new Leader.

“It is the greatest honour to have been elected as Leader of The Nationals,” Mr O’Brien said.

“For over 100 years, The Nationals have served the interests of rural and regional Victoria.

“That will not change.

“It remains our singular focus as the only party solely dedicated to serving the interests of the 25 per cent of the population who live outside the metropolitan area.

“I entered politics because I have always believed rural and regional people get a raw deal.

“As leader of our great party, I will fight every day for country people to get a fair go.

“We have an excellent team of local champions who fight every day for their electorates from Mildura to Mallacoota.

“I look forward to working with Emma and the rest of the team to continue serving the people of rural and regional Victoria.”

Ms Kealy said she welcomed the opportunity to continue her role in fighting for regional Victorians.

“The Nationals have a formidable team of community champions in Parliament and every day we stand side-by-side with our community to ensure their voice is heard,” she said.

“I look forward to continuing my role in leadership, working with Danny, our MPs and all our members and supporters who are fighting together for a fair deal for regional Victorians.”