Overview
- On Sept. 4 three recent Conservative defectors — Rosalyn Bird, Bruce Banman and Áʼa:líya Warbus — said they have joined a yet‑to‑be‑named party led temporarily by Peter Milobar and Ian Paton and announced a leadership vote before the legislature resumes on Oct. 5.
- The group says it will seat five MLAs and seek official third‑party status in the legislature to gain immediate recognition and procedural advantages.
- CentreBC remains a separate organized alternative and has nominated Lakhwinder Jhaj for the Sept. 26 Abbotsford‑Mission by‑election, where Conservative leader Kerry‑Lynne Findlay is also a candidate.
- A wider exodus has seen nine MLAs leave the B.C. Conservative caucus in recent weeks, with defectors citing concerns about Findlay’s leadership while she says she will remain in charge.
- The near‑term balance of power will hinge on the Sept. 26 by‑election and whether centre‑right groups unite before Oct. 5, because a split vote could strengthen the governing NDP and shape the path to the next provincial election.