BC NDP to select interim leader following Eby’s resignation

In the wake of outgoing Premier David Eby’s resignation as leader of the BC NDP, the party has announced a new interim leader will be named soon. 

Eby’s snap election backfired on him, and instead of winning more seats, the party lost a significant amount of supporters. 

The Conservative Party of BC ended up winning 64 seats, giving them a “super majority,” while the BC NDP claimed 28 and the BC Green Party held the two seats they held prior to the election. 

Eby offered his resignation as party leader in the aftermath of the election, though he will remain in the legislature as the elected MLA for Vancouver-Point Grey. 

This week, the BC NDP caucus released a statement indicating plans for the next few weeks. 

“As we await the final vote count, our caucus is coming together to begin the work of being a strong Official Opposition for British Columbians,” said the BC NDP caucus. 

“Our outgoing and newly elected members will each meet this week. Our caucus will also be choosing an interim leader this week.”

Some experienced, long-serving MLAs that could be chosen as interim leader include Adrian Dix, Mike Farnworth and Bowinn Ma. 

The party also noted that it will be taking a “clear and honest look” at its losing campaign. 

After an interim leader has been chosen, the BC NDP intends to set the timing and process for a leadership race in the weeks and months ahead.

“Our team of excellent BC NDP MLAs will keep standing up for working British Columbians by holding the Conservatives accountable, protecting progress on healthcare, housing and car insurance costs, standing against hate and fighting against cuts to healthcare or other services,” said the party.

The winning BC Conservatives also have some kinks to work out as they have to officially declare, or elect, Lorne Doerkson as their party leader. 

Though his status still technically designates him as interim leader, that will not stop him from becoming the premier when he is sworn in by Lieutenant Governor Wendy Lisogar-Cocchia. 

The swearing-in ceremony in which Doerkson will officially form government is estimated to take place in mid- to late-November, once the election results are finalized.