The Liberal Party is grappling with internal strife following comments made by Jacinta Nampijinpa Price regarding Indian immigrants. This incident has become a focal point in the ongoing struggle over the party's leadership and identity. Opposition Leader Sussan Ley initially mishandled the situation by not addressing Price directly. As the controversy unfolded, it became evident that Price was positioning herself as a victim and challenging Ley's authority.

After a week of turmoil, Price refused to endorse Ley's leadership, prompting Ley to remove her from the shadow ministry. While this decision reinforced Ley's authority, it also raised questions about her leadership stability. Price has indicated she will use her position on the backbench to speak freely on contentious issues, including climate policy. This shift allows her to avoid the complexities of her previous role in the defense industry, where she was expected to master intricate procurement policies.

Price's controversial remark suggested that the government favored Indian immigrants because they tend to vote for the Labor Party. This comment could have been swiftly addressed if the Liberal Party had a more cohesive and collaborative structure. Instead, the party is marked by ambition, resentment, and deep ideological divides. Ley's factional ally, Alex Hawke, faced backlash after attempting to pressure Price into apologizing, which only highlighted existing tensions within the party.

Two other Liberal women, Sarah Henderson and Jane Hume, have also entered the fray, each representing different factions within the party. Their involvement underscores the complexity of the situation, as they come from opposing ideological backgrounds. Although Ley's leadership appears secure for now, her opponents are aware that she needs time to stabilize her position. The balance of power within the party remains precarious, with potential challengers like Angus Taylor and Andrew Hastie watching closely.

Hastie has expressed a desire to lead but claims the timing is not right due to personal commitments. He has also made statements opposing the party's net-zero policy, despite not being the spokesperson for energy issues. This behavior raises concerns about Ley's ability to manage dissent within her ranks.

The Liberal Party is currently divided into two factions: one focused on conservative values and the other comprised of moderates seeking to appeal to urban voters. Ley is seen as a diligent leader, but her lack of innovative policy ideas may hinder her efforts to unite the party. A forthcoming report on the party's electoral performance is expected to highlight key issues, including the need to engage with younger voters and women.

The internal conflict over climate policy could further alienate young voters, who are already disenchanted with the major parties. Additionally, the party's struggle with gender representation continues, as Ley advocates for more female candidates while facing criticism for the party's treatment of women.

The recent resignation of Victorian state director Stuart Smith, who made derogatory comments about women, adds to the challenges Ley faces. The performance of the Victorian Liberals in the upcoming election will likely impact Ley's leadership, especially if they fail to capitalize on the vulnerabilities of the current government.

Ley has publicly apologized to the Indian community for the party's handling of the situation, but critics argue that this response came too late. The Liberal Party's ongoing issues with various ethnic communities, including the Chinese and Indian diasporas, have already cost them votes in the past. As the party navigates these challenges, the future of its leadership and unity remains uncertain.