As the new year unfolds, political commentator Joe Spagnolo has turned the tables on Western Australia's leaders, prescribing a set of bold resolutions for the state's top politicians. Instead of waiting for their promises, he's outlining what they should be aiming for in 2024.
A Frank Wishlist for Premier Roger Cook
Spagnolo directs his first and most crucial resolution squarely at Premier Roger Cook. He argues that the Premier must find a solution to the dire state of WA's health system. The commentator points to the tragic death of a woman in the waiting room of Perth's Bentley Hospital as a stark symbol of a system in crisis. He urges Cook to move beyond acknowledging the problem and to deliver a concrete, funded plan for repair.
The second resolution for the Premier is to articulate a clear and compelling vision for his leadership. Spagnolo suggests that while Cook is a decent man, he has yet to define what the "Cook era" truly represents for Western Australians. With the next state election looming in 2025, establishing this vision is presented as an urgent task.
Challenges for Opposition Leader Shane Love
The advice for the new Opposition Leader, Shane Love, is equally direct. Spagnolo's primary resolution for Love is to prove that the National-Liberal alliance is a credible alternative government. This means moving beyond simply criticising the Labor administration and presenting well-costed, alternative policies to the public.
Furthermore, Spagnolo highlights the critical need for Love to address and resolve the internal tensions within the Liberal Party. The ongoing factional warfare, he contends, is a major turn-off for voters and undermines the coalition's stability. Presenting a united front is deemed non-negotiable for any serious challenge to government.
Broader Hopes for the Political Landscape
Spagnolo's resolutions extend beyond the two main leaders. He calls for a collective commitment from all MPs to restore dignity and respect to the Westminster system, which he feels has been tarnished by recent scandals and behaviour. The hope is for a year of more substantive debate and less personal rancour.
Finally, in a pointed note, he suggests a resolution for the federal government: to remember and fairly represent the interests of Western Australia in national policy decisions, acknowledging the state's significant economic contribution.
Spagnolo's list serves as a frank, public scorecard for WA's political class. It frames 2024 as a pivotal year where addressing long-standing crises and demonstrating clear leadership will be paramount for both the government and its aspiring rivals.
