Darrell Dexter steps down as leader of Nova Scotia NDP
Posted Nov 16, 2013 11:09:22 AM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
After leading the Nova Scotia New Democratic Party to election victory and then to defeat, Darrell Dexter is stepping down as the party’s leader.
Dexter submitted his letter of resignation at an NDP Provincial Executive meeting in Halifax on Saturday. It is effective as of November 23.
“It has been a privilege to serve New Democrats across Nova Scotia over the past 12 years,” Dexter said. “I want to thank the membership for their support and dedication throughout my time as leader. I can think of no other honour that I would hold so dear.
“I also want to thank the Nova Scotians who believed in the NDP and gave us the opportunity to govern for the first time in the province’s history. It has been an experience that I will carry with me always.”
Party president David Wallbridge said Maureen MacDonald, NDP MLA for Halifax Needham, will be nominated as Acting Leader at an NDP Provincial Council meeting on Nov. 23 in Halifax.
Dexter led the Nova Scotia NDP to victory in the June 2009 election. In the October 2013 election, the party was voted out of power and into third-place status. Dexter lost his own seat.
“Darrell was our fearless leader. Throughout his entire political career he worked to make life better for Nova Scotians,” said Wallbridge. “Maureen is a tireless and talented advocate. As an experienced MLA and longtime party member, Maureen will be an excellent leader during this period of transition,” said Wallbridge.
The party says a process to elect the new permanent leader will be announced at a future date.
