A political era in this province will come to an end next Friday, Aug. 4 when Christy Clark steps aside from politics.
Clark announced this morning (Friday) that she will resign as leader of the B.C. Liberals effective Friday, Aug. 4. She will also be stepping down as MLA for Kelowna-West.
Her resignation follows her resignation as the province’s 35th premier at the end of June, which brought an end to 16 years of Liberal rule in B.C. when NDP leader John Horgan was sworn-in as premier.
“I love our party and our province with all my heart – and it’s been the honour of a lifetime to serve as leader and premier,” said Clark in a media release. “Together we have achieved so much – winning a comeback election victory that almost nobody thought possible, positioning British Columbia firmly as Canada’s leading economy, and laying a strong foundation for future generations to achieve their dreams here. I’m excited to see the renewed engagement that will strengthen and energize our party as we chose the next leader.”
Liberal Party president Sharon White said in a statement that the party has 28 days to set a leadership vote.
“I’m certain that British Columbia’s best days, and our parties, are still ahead of us,” added Clark. “Because British Columbians can, through hard work, achieve anything they set their minds to – and the B.C. Liberal Party is the embodiment of that ambitious and generous spirit. Words can’t fully express my gratitude for your support these past six years and more.”
Langley East MLA Rich Coleman was selected interim caucus leader, a move that was announced Friday afternoon during a Liberal caucus retreat in Penticton.
