Hughes MP Craig Kelly says broadcaster Alan Jones is entitled to say what he likes about potential Liberal preselection challenger Kent Johns.
Jones threatened on air last week to tell “a hell of a story” about Cr Johns, the Sutherland Shire councillor and former mayor, who wants Mr Kelly’s job.
Nominations for preselection close on February 19, with Cr Johns yet to show his hand.
Jones, a long-time supporter of Mr Kelly, told listeners after he interviewed the MP, “You're not going to get anyone better than that bloke”.
He warned he would “put a torpedo” under Cr Johns.
"You'd better pull your head in, Kent Johns because I'll tell you what: if you put your head up, there'll be a hell of a story that'll be told about you, Mr Johns,” Jones said.
Cr Johns, who was recently elected vice president of the party’s NSW branch, said he would not comment on preselection in any seat.
However, a Liberal Party source said Cr Johns was “both furious and frustrated at not being able to defend himself against a nasty and personal smear campaign”.
Mr Kelly defended the attack by Jones.
“Alan is a media commentator, and it’s a democracy, where free speech is allowed,” he said.
“He can make whatever comments he likes.
“It is very flattering that he has said some nice things about me.”
Cr Johns is a left-wing faction member, while Mr Kelly is in the right-wing and was a strong supporter of former prime minister Tony Abbott.
It is understood two other left-wing branch members are considering challenging Mr Kelly.
There is speculation an attempt will be made to embarrass Cr Johns when he gives evidence in a court case, which stems from Liberal factional warfare in the Liverpool area.
Jose Stojcevski was charged with intimidation and served with an apprehended violence order after allegedly yelling, “I’ll kill you” at Holsworthy MP Melanie Gibbons during the annual general meeting of the Moorebank branch in October last year.
The case is due to be heard on February 29
