Thursday February 27, 2025 | VICTORIA, BC
by Mary P Brooke | Island Social Trends
The BC Green Party has officially launched its 2025 Leadership Contest.
The are inviting members to lead the party into “a new era” of BC politics.
“This is more than a leadership race—it’s an opportunity for British Columbians to shape a more inclusive and forward-thinking political future,” says Alex Pope, Chair, Leadership Contest Committee and Co-Chair of the party’s Provincial Council.
“Through this contest, we’re breaking down barriers and opening the door for those who would otherwise be uninterested, disadvantaged, or excluded,” the party says.
They are hoping more people will engage in the democratic process and bring fresh perspectives to B.C. politics and to the green movement as a whole.
“As the climate crisis intensifies, it’s critical that we push the B.C. government to drive real solutions to combat it and future-proof our province,” says the leadership committee chair.
Bold ideas wanted:
“This leadership contest is a pivotal moment for the BC Greens and for British Columbia,” said Jeremy Valeriote, Interim Party Leader and MLA for West Vancouver-Sea to Sky.
“We are seeking leaders who embody bold ideas, fresh energy, and a steadfast commitment to our core values and principles. Following Sonia Furstenau’s extraordinary leadership, these are big shoes to fill. If you are ready to roll up your sleeves and get to work, this is your moment.”
Furstenau officially announced her resignation as party leader on January 28 in Victoria. That came as no surprise to anyone given that she didn’t win a seat in the October 2024 provincial election.
Before that, Adam Olsen had decided to not seek re-election in 2024. Olsen is now lead negotiator for Tsartlip First Nation.
Applications open to May 31, 2025:
Applications will be accepted from today (February 27) to May 31, 2025.
Voting in September:
Members in good standing as of August 10, 2025, will be eligible to vote between September 13 and September 23, with results announced on September 24, 2025.
Key Highlights of the Leadership Contest:
- Commitment to accessibility and equity: Any party member age 16 or older can vote, and membership remains free for youth under 25. The party is committed to a fair and inclusive leadership contest, with the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion committee actively involved and accommodations available for contestants facing systemic barriers to participation.
- Campaign spending limit: Each leadership candidate can spend up to $200,000, excluding fees paid to the party.
- Debate: At least one official debate will be held, with other official events to be announced in due course
- Secure and accessible voting: Voting will be conducted primarily online from September 13 to 23, 2025, with additional options available for those without internet access. A ranked ballot system will be used if there are two or more candidates. If there is only one candidate, a confirmation vote will take place. In all cases, the ballot will include a “None of the Above” option.
- Contestant fees: $16,000 plus a compliance deposit of $5,000 and a percentage of additional contributions.
===== RELATED:
- BC Green Leader Sonia Furstenau steps down (January 28, 2025)
- Former BC Green MLA Adam Olsen now lead negotiator for Tsartlip First Nation (December 13, 2024)
- NEWS SECTIONS: BC GREEN PARTY | 43rd BC PARLIAMENT