BC United Prince George-Valemount MLA Shirley Bond is disappointed with the departure of Abbotsford South MLA Bruce Banman.
Yesterday (Wednesday), Banman crossed the floor to join the Conservative Party of BC led by Nechako Lakes MLA John Rustad, who previously enjoyed a 17-year run with BC United.
In an interview with MyPGNow.com, Bond admits she was blindsided by the move.
“Bruce didn’t make any of this known to me. I did serve as interim leader of this party and worked very hard to create an inclusive environment where people could have their say.”
— Bruce Banman (@BruceBanman) September 13, 2023
However, Bond also noted this does not deter them in any way from trying to reclaim the legislature with an election set for next year.
“Ultimately, that is a choice that Bruce has made. But, in the meantime, we are going to do what we will continue to do and that is hold the government to account and focus on the issues that are incredibly important to British Columbians.”
In a brief statement, BC United Leader Kevin Falcon noted Banman’s move was not entirely unexpected but it betrays his constituents, who elected him to serve as part of their team.
Banman was the Mayor of Abbotsford from 2011 to 2014 prior to being elected to the Legislature in 2020.
Something going on in the Prince George area you think people should know about?
Send us a news tip by emailing [email protected].
