While he may have announced his intentions to step down as leader of the United Conservative Party earlier this week, Jason Kenney said there is still a lot of work to be done before he leaves his post.
After receiving 51.4 per cent support in his leadership review, Kenney announced Wednesday evening that he plans to step down as UCP leader. Following a caucus meeting Thursday, the decision was made for Kenney to remain in his post until a new leader can be chosen.
“I’ll be doing so as soon as the party has elected a new leader,” Kenney said during a media availability Friday morning ahead of a cabinet meeting in Calgary.
Read more:
Jason Kenney to stay on as UCP leader until successor chosen
Story continues below advertisement
Kenney said the decision to keep him on as leader allows the government a chance to maintain continuity and stability, as well as focus on the people’s priorities until a new leader is elected.
“To me that’s the most important thing. This is a critical time in Alberta’s history. We are determined to keep our eye on the ball, to continue to lead Canada in economic growth and job creation, to keep our commitments to fight for a stronger Alberta,” Kenney said. “We have a lot of important business in front of us.
“This is a demonstration that Alberta’s government continues to do the people’s business, continues to fight for this province, to work for a strong economy, to make life better for Albertans.”
4:03
The possible implications of Kenney’s plan to step down as UCP leader
The possible implications of Kenney’s plan to step down as UCP leader
Some of that work, Kenney said, includes pushing forward following a “historic win” last week regarding the federal…