The Liberal party crisis is not a dysfunctional family soap opera – democracy is at stake

The NSW Liberals internal strife has led to litigation, and free and unflattering character assessments of the prime minister, Scott Morrison, from within his own party. Photograph: Dean Lewins/AAP

What sort of political party fails to select its candidates until the election is virtually upon them?

What sort of political party finds itself being sued by its members and castigated by its own MPs using parliamentary privilege?