Flanked by supportive NDP MLAs, Opposition leader Carole James delivers a statement at a news conference today (December 2) in Vancouver, addressing the dissent within the party caucus over her leadership.

Carole James says she is disappointed by the way her leadership of the B.C. New Democrats has been attacked by a long-serving party MLA.

Vancouver MLA Jenny Kwan recently gave James a scathing review in a statement released publicly.

Kwan called for a party leadership contest to be held as soon as possible, claiming there has been poor debate and decision-making with James in charge.

James, who has tried to move past the dissent within the NDP caucus, responded to Kwan’s comments during a news conference today (December 2) in Vancouver.

“I don’t take things personally. I let things go,” James told reporters. “But I was disappointed that she didn’t take the opportunity that I gave to every caucus member, which was to sit down and talk about their concerns with me, work through them, and work with a team.”

“She chose not to do that, and that’s disappointing,” the Opposition leader added.

Kwan could not be reached immediately for comment.

James also noted she is proud of work done by Kwan, who has been an NDP MLA for 14 years.

With dissent brewing among NDP MLAs, James said an emergency meeting of the party caucus and top officials will be held in the coming days. She didn’t say what discipline, if any, Kwan might face.

“Every MLA will be held accountable for their behaviour,” she said.

James also expressed frustration the party has been focused on caucus infighting rather than its work as official Opposition.

“It’s not about liking each other. It’s not about being best friends around the caucus table.”

“It’s about making sure that we have a common direction and a common vision and a common goal, and that’s providing British Columbians with a choice in this next election.”

You can follow Stephen Thomson on Twitter at twitter.com/thomsonstraight.