New PC Leader Obby Khan Promises New PC Era During First Day in Legislative Assembly
WINNIPEG — New Leader of the Official Opposition Obby Khan was on the offensive during Question Period Monday, as he marked his first opportunity to rise in the Manitoba Legislature and address his fellow MLAs in the chamber.
“Today I have the honour of rising as the leader of His Majesty’s Official Opposition—to play a key leadership role in our free and democratic electoral system. I am beyond honoured and humbled. Thank you,” said Khan in a private member’s statement Monday.
The Opposition Leader promised to usher in a new era of dignity and decorum at the legislative building after months of rancorous debate.
“We hold this NDP government to account and we will do that in a dignified way that reflects the views of Manitobans who have sent us a clear message: all elected officials must do better,” said Khan. “Yes, we will ask tough questions because Manitobans deserve real answers.”
The Leader made a number of changes to caucus roles:
- Portage la Prairie MLA Jeff Bereza is the new Deputy Leader;
- Steinbach MLA Kelvin Goertzen assumes the role of Caucus Chair;
- Roblin MLA Kathleen Cook is Party Whip;
- Brandon West MLA Wayne Balcaen is Deputy Whip;
- La Vérendrye MLA Konrad Narth is Deputy House Leader, while Interlake-Gimli MLA Derek Johnson remains as Opposition House Leader; and
- Lac du Bonnet MLA Wayne Ewasko, former Interim Leader of the Official Opposition, returns to his portfolio as PC Critic for Education and Early Childhood Learning.
Khan says he has a number of concerns about legislation proposed by the NDP. This includes Bill 30, which contains many changes to Manitoba election laws, as well as the other four designated bills which require more consultation and input from Manitobans.
“I also have concerns about other legislation,” said Khan. “The justice minister should amend Bill 43 at 3rd reading to make it clear that it will not infringe on anyone’s freedom of speech or other freedoms, based on comments justice minister Matt Weibe has made publicly on Bill 43.”
The Manitoba Legislature will be in session until breaking for the summer on June 2.
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