Chilliwack (with files from Canadian Press/CKNW) – – A few months ago at a round table at Grand Hall in District 1881, Á’a:líya Warbus MLA Chilliwack-Cultus Lake MLA casually tossed aside a quip, that if things soured with the BC Conservatives, she could sit as an independent.
To quote Bob Dylan, “Things Have Changed”.
John Rustad was ousted as leader in favour of Kerry-Lynne Findlay.
Findlay’s inner circle have made comments critical of Indigenous people and in particular, DRIPA. The other Chilliwack MLA, Healther Maahs, agreed with the party line. Maahs is also interim in house party leader.
On Monday morning August 31, Á’a:líya Warbus MLA Chilliwack-Cultus Lake announced she is leaving the Conservatives to sit as an independent.
From Canadian Press: Conservative MLA A’a:liya Warbus has announced she is leaving the party’s legislative caucus, joining an exodus under new leader Kerry-Lynne Findlay.
Warbus says in a statement she will sit as an Independent, citing her loss of confidence in the party under Findlay.
She is the seventh Conservative MLA to quit the party this month, including five last week.
Warbus, who was one of the most prominent figures in the party as an Indigenous MLA and former House leader, also cites the cancellation of a caucus meeting she says had been called for Monday in light of the “implosion” of events last week.
She says the cancellation reflects a “lack of value” being placed in caucus members’ opinions.
The Chilliwack-Cultus Lake MLA also says she was concerned about the circumstances surrounding the resignation from the legislature of Reann Gasper to make way for Findlay to stand in a byelection.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Aug. 31, 2026
UPDATE – What does sitting as an Independent MLA mean for Chilliwack–Cultus Lake?
While where I sit in the Legislature has changed, my responsibility to you has not.
As an Independent MLA, I will continue to represent the people of Chilliwack–Cultus Lake, raise the issues that matter to our communities, advocate for constituents and work with anyone who is willing to find practical solutions for British Columbians.
My constituency office remains open, and our team will continue assisting residents who need help navigating provincial programs and services. I will continue attending community events, meeting with local leaders and organizations, and bringing your concerns and priorities forward in Victoria.
Being Independent means I can consider each issue on its own merits and make decisions guided by my values, my responsibilities and the people I was elected to serve.
Thank you for the many emails, messages and words of encouragement I have received. Your kindness and support have meant more to me and my family than I can fully express.
It remains an incredible honour to represent Chilliwack–Cultus Lake. I am still here, still listening and still working for you.
With gratitude,
Á’a:líya Warbus
