Naheed Nenshi, the newly elected leader of Alberta’s New Democratic Party (NDP), is still settling in after taking over the helm just six months ago, following the resignation of Rachel Notley. The former Calgary mayor, who won the leadership race with 86% support, acknowledges he is still learning the ropes and finding his footing without yet securing a seat in the legislature.
"I really am still getting my skis under me," Nenshi remarked during a recent year-end interview. This period has provided him with the unique opportunity to engage directly with constituents – from nurses and teachers to parents and law enforcement – rather than being tied to the often tumultuous sessions of the provincial legislature. He emphasized, "It’s almost been useful for me to have the freedom to go talk to the nurses or the teachers or the parents or the cops, rather than be sitting in [the legislature] watching really bad acting and really terrible drama on the other side of the aisle."
Nenshi's leadership marks significant change for the NDP, which has restructured its approach to opposition. Rather than merely reacting with outrage to the United Conservative Party (UCP) government’s policies, he aims to cultivate targeted, effective messaging. This reinvention is needed now more than ever as he navigates the political terrain leading up to the next election, scheduled for 2025.
The departure of Notley, who greatly expanded the NDP's reach during her tenure, has posed challenges for Nenshi as he steps away from her shadow and establishes his own identity as leader. He is fully aware of the challenges ahead, particularly with regard to needing to secure his seat, especially with Notley’s former Edmonton-Strathcona seat now vacant.
“I’m not expecting Premier Danielle Smith to call a byelection before the six-month deadline to do so in June,” Nenshi speculated, feeling the UCP may aim to keep him from the budget debates. This much-anticipated byelection is pivotal; for Nenshi, its timing will heavily influence his role and effectiveness within the province’s political framework.
Part of Nenshi’s strategy moving forward includes addressing the concerns surrounding the NDP's perceived ties to the federal party under Jagmeet Singh. This connection has served as fodder for UCP attack ads, alleging the provincial party's lack of independence. Nenshi aims to rectify this perception and plans to address the institutional affiliations of his party at the next NDP policy convention, set for May.
Nenshi has expressed urgency around pressing issues he believes have been sidelined by the UCP, like healthcare, jobs, and public education. "These are not priorities for this government at all," he asserted, explaining plans to develop new healthcare policies with former health critic Luanne Metz at the helm. Nenshi stated they are committed to crafting policies carefully, contrasting with what he describes as the UCP's ad-hoc approach to governance.
While campaigning, the NDP highlighted proposals aimed at enhancing worker protections and supporting reconciliation with Indigenous communities, showing their commitment to addressing social issues. Nenshi hopes to bring back elementary education bills for managing class sizes – which were defeated – alongside aims to repeal UCP policies he categorizes as cruel, especially those affecting transgender health care.
He remains staunchly opposed to the relaxed ethics rules which allow political staff to accept gifts. Referring to this potential for corruption, Nenshi argues for transparency, saying, "Throw open the curtains so we can see all of the grift and corruption happening under this government to make sure it’s not repeated ever."
The NDP achieved one of its significant victories this past year with the election of Rob Miyashiro, the new representative for West Lethbridge, wherein Nenshi invested considerable campaign efforts. This success has contributed positively to the party’s outlook for the future.
„It feels terrific,” he reflected on the victorious outcome. “The UCP threw everything they had to win, so Rob didn’t just win, he crushed it. It’s clear the people of Lethbridge understand democracy more than the UCP gives them credit for."
Looking toward 2025, Nenshi highlights issues like cost of living, public health care, and education as priority concerns for Albertans. Despite this, he critiques the UCP for what he perceives as their neglect of pressing societal needs. "I have never seen a government quite like this one before. They only care about political gain and maintaining their position,” he stated, emphasizing the disconnect between the administration and everyday Albertans.
With the upcoming years promising to be consequential for both his leadership and the NDP's direction, Nenshi’s ability to formulate and communicate viable policy solutions will be tested. Engaging meaningfully with Albertans amid the political turbulence will be pivotal to regain their trust and reposition the NDP as viable contenders.
Naheed Nenshi’s initial months have had their share of revelations, logistical hurdles, and strategic planning. How successfully he navigates challenges and secures his future seat will set the stage for his continuing leadership and the NDP’s role within Alberta politics.
