The Federal NDP has announced its shortlist of nominees vying to be the party's candidate and successor to MP Richard Cannings in the South Okanagan - West Kootenay riding.
With a federal election around the corner, the riding association has announced four people who are vying to be the candidate to replace Cannings after his retirement from politics.
“It is encouraging to see such high-calibre candidates put their names forward,” said Cannings. “We will need an experienced and adept representative to navigate the challenges that will face our next Parliament. Each of these candidates brings substantial experience and a strong voice to advocate for our unique region.”
The four candidates are Herb Alex, Harpreet Badohal, Miguel Godau, and Linda Sankey.
Alex is from the Osoyoos Indian Band and has deep roots across the riding. He has spent decades working with all levels of government to promote good governance and sustainability.
Badohal is a long-time health and safety professional with experience leading teams within the Ministry of Labour. His experience and passion are in developing strategies for a sustainable economic future.
Godau is a leader in the Department of Child and Youth Mental Health and has been deeply engaged in advocating for those facing housing, food, and job insecurity. He is the President of the Castlegar Arts Council and an active community member.
Sankey is a long-time Penticton resident and community leader with a 30-year history of service including the health care sector, BC Housing, the Penticton Chamber of Commerce, the City of Penticton Housing Task Force and the 100 More Homes Collaborative. She is currently the executive director of the Brain Injury Society.
Members of the NDP in the riding will be asked to vote for their chosen nominee on March 1.
The federal Conservative Party of Canada is also looking to select a candidate in the coming weeks from a list of four nominees, which are Kevin Klippenstein, Chris Pequin, Gary Johal and former B.C. Liberal MLA Dan Ashton.
A date for the federal election is likely to be set in the spring, after the federal Liberal Party of Canada decides on a successor to the party leadership from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on March 9.
By law, an election is required by Oct. 20, 2025.
The riding is set to undergo changes to its boundaries in the upcoming election, which will see Princeton and the rest of the Similkameen Valley join the riding while Trail and several communities in the West Kootenay region removed from the boundaries.
