Tribute paid to Carole James as B.C. NDP members select new leader
B.C. NDP members paid tribute to Carole James today as the party prepared to pick its new leader.
As NDP members awaited a final chance to cast their ballots at Canada Place, interim leader Dawn Black and party president Moe Sihota both made comments praising the past leader.
“She rebuilt our party from the ashes, bringing us to the very brink of government,” said Black.
James told reporters she was feeling positive about the leadership election.
“There’s a good energy in the crowd, and after a long campaign, this is the opportunity for the party to get on with the work that needs to be done,” she said.
“I’ve seen too many politicians over the years hang on and be bitter about things that have gone on,” she added. “There’s lots to do in life, there’s lots of opportunities, I’m back serving my community which is where I began my political life.”
Following the tribute, each of the candidates made speeches to the packed room at the convention centre.
As part of his comments, Adrian Dix spoke about inequality, and targeted B.C. Premier Christy Clark.
“Inequality has grown out of the present government - we have the highest levels of inequality in all of Canada,” he said.
John Horgan said the party had experienced a revival during the leadership race.
“What we set out to do 97 days ago was reinvigorate the party,” he said. “I’m proud to stand before you today, a raucus audience on a sunny Sunday afternoon, and say mission accomplished, we have reinvigorated the party,” he said to applause.
“Ladies and gentlemen, this is a turning point for British Columbia, it’s a turning point for the New Democratic Party,” he added.
In his speech, Dana Larsen reiterated the four planks of his leadership platform – democracy, sustainability, social justice and smart on crime.
He also encouraged his supporters to place Horgan as their second ballot choice.
Mike Farnworth told the crowd the NDP has been “left in the hands of those who do not have our values for far too long”.
The candidate said unity within the party and the caucus is “only the first step on the road to victory”.
Comments
2 Comments
Steve Y
Apr 17, 2011 at 5:34pm
Yeah carole, we loved you... you couldn't beat the most hated man in the province and have the charisma of mrs. potato head but good job. Really.
joejoeanne45
Apr 17, 2011 at 8:31pm
Carole James did a great job bringing the party back from almost complete anihilation to the point of taking power. She has integrity, honesty, comes from a working class background and worked hard to address issues affecting the most marginalized people in our society. What really depresses me is that people like you Steve are so willing to attack someone like Carol James (and I suspect you are not so critical or vocal about lack of charisma in male politicians). Very helpful to people like Christy Clark (no doubt her charisma is something you admire) who can benefit hugely from people on the left attacking each other. Impressive.