REGINA — The Saskatchewan NDP will vote on a new party leader this summer, following the announcement earlier this month that former leader Ryan Meili has decided to step down.
The party’s provincial council have set the rules for the upcoming leadership convention, which will take place in Regina in late June, according to a statement.
Leadership candidacy is now open to all Sask NDP party members, and all party members in good standing are able to declare their intent to run for the position.
Potential candidates interested must receive approval from the Sask NDP to pursue leadership, as well as follow several requirements to join the race, including:
- providing at least 100 signatures of Sask NDP members, from at least 20 constituencies, half of whom are women or gender diverse;
- providing a non-refundable fee of $4,000;
- limiting their campaign spending to a maximum of $200,000.
The provincial council noted that all Sask NDP members in good standing will be eligible to vote at the convention, which will be available either online or by mail-in ballot.
Meili announced his decision on Feb. 18, saying he will continue to serve as the interim leader until a new one is chosen. He also pledged to finish his current term as the sitting MLA for Saskatoon Meewasin.
The party leader said his decision to step down was driven by concern that the public has begun to associate him with his stance on pandemic and public health safety, and that he had been considering the action for some time.
“We need a new voice and I believe that's what the Saskatchewan people are looking for,” said Meili, during his announcement appearance.
As of Feb. 28, several potential candidates have denied intentions to run for the party leader position, including Saskatoon Centre MLA Betty Nippi-Albright, Regina Rosemont MLA Trent Wotherspoon and Saskatoon mayor Charlie Clark.
Nicole Sarauer, MLA for Regina Douglas Park and deputy leader, also said she will not be making a bid for the position, but endorsed Regina Lakeview MLA Carla Beck on social media on Sunday.
“Carla Beck is the strong and unifying leader we need to build our party and deliver for people across our province,” wrote Sarauer, on Twitter.
Beck has not yet made a formal statement declaring her intent to seek leadership.
Meili said that he will not be providing endorsement for any candidate seeking to fill his leadership role.
