Andrew Wilkinson will step down as leader of the BC Liberals in the wake of a defeat during Saturday's election. (The Canadian Press)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

LIBERAL LEADER

BC Liberal leader Andrew Wilkinson to step down following election defeat

Oct 26, 2020 | 2:14 PM

NANAIMO — The BC Liberals efforts to ‘rebuild BC’ came short on election night and now attention will turn to rebuilding the party.

Leader Andrew Wilkinson spoke for around 90 seconds on Monday, Oct. 26, saying he would step down as party leader.

A 12 seat swing during Saturday’s provincial election saw the NDP secure a strong majority of over 50 seats. The Liberals held 41 heading into the vote and are currently elected or leading in 29.

“Today we begin the challenging and exciting process of rebuilding the party and we do so with a very strong base of elected members in the legislature and a strong membership throughout British Columbia,” Wilkinson said.

Wilkinson said he has asked party executives to lay out a timeline for a leadership selection process. He added he would remain in charge until a new leader was selected.

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Wilkinson did not say whether or not he would continue on as MLA in his Vancouver-Quilchena riding.

It’s the second election where the results have forced a change atop the Liberal party. Christy Clark stepped down after premier-elect John Horgan formed a coalition government with the BC Greens in 2017.

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