VICTORIA B.C. – The BC Green Party opened Leadership Applications today, marking the beginning of a six-month long contest.
Highlights of the leadership contest as set out in the rules include:
- Expanded voter base to include those aged 16 and up who wish to support a candidate but do not wish to become a party member. Full membership in the party is already free for youth aged 25 and younger.
- The spending limit for each candidate is $300,000, excluding fees paid to the party.
- Three debates will take place after April 30. A debate will be held in each of the following regions: (1) Vancouver Island, (2) Lower Mainland, (3) rest of B.C..
- Voting will take place from June 15-26 primarily online, with a secure telephone option for those without access to the internet. The party will use ranked ballots for a contest of three or more candidates, or first-past-the-post for a contest of two.
- Fees paid to the party will total $16,000, plus a compliance deposit and 25% of additional contributions.
Leadership Applications may be submitted to the party until April 15, 2020.
“Stepping aside as leader allows me to offer more support and provide space for a strong, vibrant leadership race,” said Andrew Weaver.
“The momentum within the BC Green Party gives me peace of mind as I turn the reins over to future Green leaders.”
The beginning of the leadership contest also commences Adam Olsen’s first day as interim leader of the party.
“We still have a lot of exciting work ahead,” said Adam Olsen. “It is an honour to be the interim leader at a time in our party where we take the next step.”
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Media contact:
+1 888 473 3686 ext. 49
newsroom@bcgreens.ca