We all knew that change was a-comin’ but the extent is staggering. The historically large majority handed to the Progressive Conservatives can only be interpreted one way: change is needed and if we are swinging the pendulum, it’s going all the way.
Brian Pallister’s impending move to the Premier’s office is no surprise. Its former occupant is likely questioning his decision to remain leader during the dissent last year. If he’s not, I’m sure the NDP party executive is. The fall of the NDP was not a vote against the party; it was a vote of non-confidence in the leader. This non-confidence was shored up by the exodus of veteran MLAs who may not all have left due to Greg Selinger, but their departure sent a signal nonetheless.
Ultimately, with Mr. Selinger’s resignation as leader, the NDP is in prime position for a rebuild of their brand. Attempting to cover both the left and centre has, some would say, left them stretched thin with a diluted mandate. There is no heir apparent, but there are a number of skilled veterans and rookies to choose from. A careful choice for interim leader, such as James Allum, may serve them well. As they move towards a new leader, the choice of position on the political spectrum will determine their future and likely impact the positions of the other parties.
Such as the Manitoba Liberals. Rana Bokhari has announced she has no intention of resigning her leadership. And though handily defeated in her own riding, the Liberals can claim some success, having tripled their seat count. A strong hand on the party rudder will be critical as the NDP refocus, potentially leaving the middle ground open again. If the Liberals can reclaim the moderate centre, their proverbial motherland, we will see the multiparty system truly return to Manitoba. While Ms. Bokhari’s long-term future remains clouded, it may be wise to allow her to remain if she has the energy to continue the fight.
Our new premier has some tough decisions to make in this honeymoon period. Decisions that will not only have a significant impact on the direction of government, but will send a strong message to the public… and his own party. Mr. Pallister will need to employ the wisdom of Solomon to find the right mix of talented individuals, rewarding those who have done their time in opposition and raising the profile of new MLAs.
The party is full of talented people, including local MLAs Kelvin Goertzen and Shannon Martin. Goertzen appears to be a natural for Attorney General, and he has developed good relationships through his work as house leader.
Ensuring appropriate positions for the new MLAs and the women in caucus will be challenging in light of Mr. Pallister’s promise to reduce the number of ministers. Perhaps he will couple his wisdom with some cunning and create a variety of junior positions—secretary and assistant minister positions.
We are, at the end of the day, a public that cares less about the internal manoeuvring of government and more about what it all means to us. For example, we have the gold at the end of the mandate rainbow to look forward to: the much publicized cut to the PST. We should hope that it’s not fool’s gold, as most people never really noticed the one percent increase.
So what does it mean to us? In this question, we should wish our government the most wisdom.
