Mark Carney is set to officially launch his candidacy for the Liberal Party leadership at an event in Edmonton on Thursday, as announced by Calgary Skyview MP George Chahal.

The former governor of the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England will be joining Ottawa MP Chandra Arya, Nova Scotia MP Jaime Battiste, and Former Liberal MP Frank Baylis in the leadership race.

Chahal expressed his support for Carney, stating, “In an era of global challenges and economic opportunities, Mark Carney possesses the necessary experience and leadership skills to tackle these challenges and capitalize on the opportunities.”

Highlighting Carney’s non-political background, Chahal added, “Mark Carney is not a career politician; his dedication lies with his country, community, faith, and family.”

The announcement follows Carney’s subtle campaign launch during an appearance on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart earlier this week. The Liberal Party is set to elect its new leader, and potentially Canada’s next prime minister, on March 9, with the deadline for candidacy declarations being January 23. Interested individuals can register with the party to vote in the leadership race until January 27.

Carney is being portrayed as a Liberal candidate in the vein of Lester B. Pearson, described as “a great public servant who ventured into elected office following a distinguished career.”

Despite Alberta traditionally leaning towards the Conservative party, Carney’s choice to kick off his campaign in the province is aimed at highlighting his roots there, having grown up and attended high school in Alberta. Born in Fort Smith, N.W.T., Carney’s upbringing in Alberta is said to have instilled in him the values of hard work and perseverance that resonate with individuals across the province.

The announcement comes on the heels of Innovation Minister François-Philippe Champagne and former B.C. premier Christy Clark opting out of the leadership race.