At a convention for British Columbia Premier David Eby’s governing New Democratic Party (NDP), Federal NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh delivered strong criticisms against both Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre.
Singh, whose party is currently in a confidence and supply agreement with Trudeau’s federal Liberal minority government, did not hold back in his assessment of the political landscape. He accused Prime Minister Trudeau of being “an out of touch leader who only acts when facing political troubles.” This sharp critique underscores the existing tension between the NDP and the Liberals, despite their working arrangement.
The NDP leader also targeted Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, claiming that Poilievre “only pretends to care and doesn’t know about the struggles and lives of regular people.” These comments come as political parties are ramping up their strategies ahead of next year’s provincial election.
The convention, taking place in Victoria, is a hub for policy debate and strategic planning among B.C. New Democrats. Singh emphasized the federal NDP’s commitment to advocating for significant healthcare reforms. He highlighted the push towards implementing a dental care coverage program for all Canadians and the continuous fight for a universal Pharmacare program, which aims to cover prescription costs for everyone.
Describing the experience of working with the federal Liberals, Singh used a vivid metaphor, stating it was like “wrestling with eels soaked in oil.” This analogy reflects the challenges and complexities in the current political dynamics.
In a notable occurrence outside the convention hall, approximately 100 protesters were seen advocating for Palestinian rights. The protesters, vocalizing “Free Palestine,” included some individuals lying silently on the ground, draped in white sheets stained with red, symbolizing a powerful message of protest and solidarity.
