Singh looks to make history
Ontario politician wants to replace the NDP’s Thomas Mulcair and become first non-white leader of a federal party in Canada
Surrounded by hundreds of cheering supporters, Ontario NDP deputy leader Jagmeet Singh announced Monday evening his bid to replace Thomas Mulcair as the party’s leader in Ottawa — a quest that could make him the first non-white to helm a major federal party.
A rising star in the Ontario NDP legislature, Singh launched his campaign at the Bombay Palace banquet hall in Brampton, in front of supporters carrying orange signs bearing the slogan “With Love & Courage.”
“People are hungry for new leadership in our country,” Singh said from a stage set up in the middle of the hall. “They are hungry for new leadership in our party . . . That is what drives me to be your new leader; that is what drives me to be your prime minister.”
During his speech, delivered in English and French, Singh emphasized his goals of fighting inequality and bringing all Canadians together. He criticized Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for what he called inaction on climate change, electoral reform and the welfare of First Nations children. He was also critical of the Conservative leadership candidates, accusing them of “literally tripping over each other” to drive a wedge between Canadians.
Should he be successful, Singh, who is Sikh, would break through a longstanding barrier at the federal level, one that really ought to have been shattered long ago, said Karl Belanger, Mulcair’s former principal secretary.
“Having somebody from a different ethnic background than what we have seen over the past 150 years is something that needs to be applauded,” Belanger said.
He’s also known as a fashion plate — he has graced multiple best-dressed and style-icon lists in the Toronto area over the years — and for his prowess as a mixed martial arts fighter.
The other official NDP leadership contenders are B.C. MP Peter Julian, Ontario MP Charlie Angus, Manitoba MP Niki Ashton and Quebec MP Guy Caron.
Voting is scheduled to take place in October. The next leadership debate is scheduled for Sudbury on May 28. With files from The Canadian Press and Rob Ferguson