Victoria/Fraser Valley (with files from CBC) – The drama surrounding the BC Conservative Party ramped up on Wednesday December 3.
Was Opposition Leader and BC Conservative Leader John Rustad pushed aside? 20 MLA’s signed a legal document that removes him from caucus. Rustad says “He’s not going anywhere”.
CBC released a timeline for December 3:
- John Rustad has been removed as leader of the B.C. Conservatives, according to the party’s board.
- But Rustad told reporters that “nothing has changed” and he remains leader. He added on social media: “I am not going anywhere.”
- B.C. Conservative House leader and Chilliwack-Cultus Lake MLA Á’a:líya Warbus said members would have clarity on who is the party’s leader by the end of day. However, no offiicial announcement came Wednesday evening.
- The board’s decision comes after months of turmoil in the party that have seen legislature members (MLAs) resigning from or being kicked out of caucus.
- A letter released Wednesday December 3, signed by 20 of the party’s MLAs, said they had “lost confidence” in Rustad’s leadership.
- Trevor Halford, MLA for Surrey-White Rock, said he has been selected as interim leader of the party, but it’s unclear who will be the leader of the Official Opposition in the B.C. Legislature.
…… and the drama continues.
More to come.
