The PLP’s Annual Delegates Conference takes place this evening, with the position of party leader and deputy leader reportedly in contention.

All executive positions are open for election at the annual meeting, with candidates having to submit their intention three weeks before the event. Candidates can also be nominated on the night of the election, with the permission of delegates.

Opposition Leader Marc Bean is expected to be challenged by Shadow Immigration and External Affairs Minister Walton Brown.

It is understood that as many as four PLP MPs may challenge Deputy Leader Derrick Burgess for his seat.

Mr Bean took over the leadership of the party just days after the last general election, which saw then-party leader and Premier Paula Cox lose her seat. Mr Bean soundly defeated PLP veteran Terry Lister for the post by 111 votes to 35.

Mr Burgess became Deputy Leader in October of 2010, seeing off competition from Mr Lister, Michael Weeks, Walter Roban and Randy Horton for the position, which was left vacant following Ms Cox’s election to Party Leader.

This year’s conference begins at the Devonshire Recreational Club at 7pm.

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