Brian Pallister says he will step down as Manitoba premier on Wednesday
Posted August 29, 2021 3:15 pm.
Last Updated August 30, 2021 7:53 pm.
WINNIPEG — Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister issued a statement Monday morning, after saying this weekend that he will step down on Wednesday.
Statement from Premier Brian Pallister https://t.co/QUbEOPU5j2 pic.twitter.com/q7dzM9VNUA
— Manitoba Gov News (@MBGovNews) August 30, 2021
“I am resigning at this time to ensure the election of my successor can continue to take place free of any perception of any influence from the Office of the Premier,” Pallister said.
Pallister had announced earlier this month his plan to retire and not seek re-election.
The Progressive Conservative party scheduled a leadership vote for Oct. 30.
Pallister says he is leaving sooner to avoid any perception that he is influencing the leadership race.
READ MORE:
- A list of milestones in Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister’s political career
- Excerpts from an interview with Manitoba premier as he prepares to leave office
NEW: Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister says he will resign on Wednesday.
He had previously said he would not seek re-election.
— Courtney Theriault (@cspotweet) August 29, 2021
The Tory caucus is to choose an interim leader this week to hold office until the party’s leadership vote.
Pallister plans to stay on as a member of the legislature for a short time.
READ: Manitoba’s governing party sets date, rules and entry fee for leadership race
He has been premier since 2016 and enjoyed strong support in opinion polls until the COVID-19 pandemic.
Manitoba was hit hard by the second and third waves and had to ship dozens of intensive care patients to other provinces.
WATCH: Premier Brian Pallister staying clear of Manitoba PC leadership contest (Aug. 23, 2021)
