Naheed Nenshi Acclaimed as NDP Candidate in Edmonton-Strathcona

Naheed Nenshi, the Alberta NDP Leader, has been acclaimed as the party’s candidate in Edmonton-Strathcona. This marks a significant milestone for Nenshi, who took on the role of Opposition leader in June and has been working towards securing a seat in the legislature.

The vacancy in Edmonton-Strathcona was created when former NDP leader Rachel Notley stepped down as the member on Dec. 30. This move requires the government to call a byelection by the end of June. The governing United Conservative Party has yet to open a nomination contest in the riding.

In the 2023 general election, Notley won almost 80% of votes in Edmonton-Strathcona, but her NDP was defeated by Premier Danielle Smith’s United Conservatives. Nenshi, in a statement, expressed gratitude for Notley’s years of service in the area, which he described as the party’s stronghold.

Nenshi also took the opportunity to criticize Smith, calling her self-interested and stating that Albertans deserve a government focused on supporting public education, healthcare, and a diverse economy.

A UCP spokesperson, Dave Prisco, confirmed that the party will hold a nomination contest to allow Edmontonians to choose their candidate. He emphasized the importance of having a locally selected candidate who understands the issues facing Edmontonians.

Smith, when asked about the possibility of a byelection during the legislature’s spring sitting, pointed to the June 30 deadline set by Alberta election laws. She reiterated the importance of serving and representing all Albertans through their local MLA.

The legislature is set to convene in late February for the 2025 budget and will break for the summer in late May. Nenshi’s acclaimed candidacy sets the stage for a competitive byelection in Edmonton-Strathcona, with both the NDP and UCP vying for the seat.