Northern Territory Labor deputy leader Dheran Young has been dumped from the role and replaced by Nightcliff MP Ed Smelt, with the Daly MLA describing the decision as "deeply disappointing".
Mr Young, the Member for Daly since 2021, was removed from the role following a caucus vote. Mr Smelt, who entered parliament after winning the Nightcliff by-election in March, will serve as the party's new deputy leader.
In a statement posted to social media, Mr Young said he was disappointed by the decision and announced he would relinquish all 10 of his shadow portfolios, including Aboriginal affairs.
"It is a decision I wish has not occurred," Mr Young said.
"I have always been clear about the direction I believe our party needs to take, the values we must stand for, and the reforms needed to make Labor stronger."
One of four Indigenous Labor MLAs in the Northern Territory Parliament, Mr Young said he would now focus on representing the people of Daly.
"After some time out bush, I will continue working to strengthen the party and help drive it in the right direction," he wrote.
"I have enjoyed my time serving as Deputy Leader of the Opposition team. It has been a privilege to serve in that role, and I remain committed to the people I represent and the future of Labor in the Northern Territory."
Speaking on ABC Radio on Friday, NT Opposition leader Selena Uibo said the decision was made by Labor's caucus and rejected suggestions the party was in crisis.
"There was a caucus and Ed Smelt was elected as deputy opposition leader," she said.
"We've had contact [with Mr Young], we haven't spoken, but we're a team and continue to do the job Territorians want us to do."
Mr Smelt is Labor's only MP representing Darwin and its surrounding suburbs, having won the Nightcliff by-election after former Greens MLA Kat McNamara resigned earlier this year, citing ongoing health challenges.
Ms Uibo said Mr Smelt would bring a "renewed focus on winning back the trust and confidence of the people of Darwin and the wider Territory".
