VICTORIA B.C. – Andrew Weaver, leader of the B.C. Green Party, issued the following statement on the results of yesterday’s by-election in Kelowna West:

“I am extremely grateful to Robert for running a strong campaign based on the values of sustainability and evidence-based decision-making. It was a privilege to campaign with Robert, talk with voters in the Okanagan and demonstrate our support for this region. What I found truly inspiring about Robert’s campaign is its commitment to engaging voters on issues that have been ignored by the other parties such as Kelowna’s emerging economy and wildlife management.

“The many, many volunteers on Robert’s campaign also deserve to be congratulated for their work. No campaign can exist without the dedicated support of volunteers, and Robert’s team went above and beyond.

“I would like to congratulate Ben on his election as MLA for Kelowna West, as well as Shelley Cook, Mark Thompson and Kyle Geronazzo on their campaigns. The riding has been without representation in Victoria for more than six months – I am glad that seat in the legislature will finally be filled. I look forward to working with Ben on areas of common ground in the months and years to come.

“The extremely low voter turnout of yesterday’s by-election – 29% – is deeply troubling. When so few turn out to vote, it is clear people do not feel as if elections matter or their votes make a difference. We must do better to engage British Columbians in our democracy.”

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Media contact

Stefan Jonsson, Director of Communications

+1 888-473-3686 ext. 3 | stefan.jonsson@bcgreens.ca