Trio of New Democrat MPs blast party’s selection process for interim leader

Three NDP MPs have raised concerns about the process used to select the party’s interim leader, Don Davies, following Jagmeet Singh’s resignation. Leah Gazan, Lori Idlout, and Jenny Kwan penned a letter to the party’s executive and national council expressing their disappointment and feeling excluded from the decision-making process.

The MPs highlighted the importance of upholding democratic and transparent principles, especially in light of the party’s historic electoral loss. They emphasized the need for a formal consultation and decision-making process within the parliamentary caucus before a decision is made by the council. The trio of MPs expressed their frustration at not being able to share their vision for interim leadership with the council before the appointment was finalized.

Shortly after Davies was named interim leader, Gazan took to social media to express her surprise at learning about the decision through the news. This further underscored the lack of communication and consultation with caucus members regarding the selection process.

The NDP’s constitution grants the national council the authority to appoint an interim leader, but it also mandates consultation with caucus members. The party defended its selection process, stating that it followed the constitution to the letter. National director Lucy Watson emphasized the diverse experiences and perspectives within the caucus and the shared commitment to reconnect with working people and deliver for Canadians.

Former party director of communications, Mélanie Richer, criticized the MPs’ letter as “disappointing” and a waste of time, given the more pressing issues facing the party. Richer argued that the focus should be on moving forward and not getting bogged down in temporary decisions.

In their letter, Gazan, Idlout, and Kwan called for the interim leadership to be ratified by a two-thirds majority vote in caucus, despite it not being a requirement in the NDP constitution. They stressed the importance of transparency and unity within the caucus to navigate the challenges ahead.

Overall, the MPs’ concerns highlight the need for clear communication, consultation, and transparency in the decision-making process within the NDP. Moving forward, it will be essential for the party to address these issues and work towards a unified path forward during this critical time.