Lethbridge-West residents still without representation five months after MLA resignation [Video]

LETHBRIDGE –

A back-and-forth question between Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and Alberta NDP Leader Naheed Nenshi when it comes to calling a Lethbridge-West byelection has no distinct answer nearly five months later.

“I’m actually surprised the leader of the official opposition has shown no interest in seeking a seat in the legislature,” said Smith during a media conference in Lethbridge on Wednesday.

But during an interview on Friday, Nenshi argued against that claim.

“It’s very clear why she’s stalling; she wants the election to happen when there’s no students in Lethbridge-West to vote,” Nenshi said.

While Smith says she’s waiting for Nenshi to find a seat, political watchers say calling the byelection is solely Smith’s responsibility.

“The question isn’t about Nenshi. The question is about Smith,” said Duane Bratt, political scientist at Mount Royal University.

“There was an issue when Smith became premier back in 2022 because she didn’t have a seat …