Alberta’s Stelmach Not Seeking Re-Election

Alberta Premier Ed Stelmach announced his decision on January 25 not to seek re-election as an MLA in the next provincial election but keep his seat in the legislature until then, and remain as Premier and Progressive Conservative Party Leader until a new party leader is chosen.

In his announcement, Premier Stelmach stated:

“Since the New Year, I have been spending the last few weeks asking my Caucus to indicate to me their intentions for the next provincial election. As I have been having these discussions I have also been reflecting on my own commitment to serve beyond the next election.

Upon much reflection and consultation with family and close friends, I have determined that after 25 years of public service, I am not be prepared to serve another full term as Premier.
Therefore, I have decided to announce I will not be running as a candidate in the next general election.
I am grateful to all those who supported me - who gave me the opportunity to raise integrity and honesty into government for the benefit of all Albertans.
At a further date, I will provide written notice to the President of the PC Party, my intention to resign as

leader. In due course, a full, fair and transparent leadership race will be held to select my successor. Until I provide the formal notice of intent to resign, I will continue to govern to fulfill commitments I made in the last general election.”

Ukrainian Canadian Congress Alberta Provincial Council President Daria Luciw stated “…a tireless supporter of the Ukrainian Canadian community, a proud Albertan and champion for the people, Ed Stelmach is highly respected as was shown in his landside election victory in 2008…
“His integrity, honesty and hard work should serve as a role model for people across the country.  As the grandson of Ukrainian immigrants, Ed Stelmach is a truly Canadian success story that should serve as an inspiration not just for Ukrainian Canadians, but for all Canadians.”
First elected to the provincial legislature in 1993, Mr. Stelmach was re-elected on 4 additional occasions, and held numerous cabinet posts such as Minister of Agriculture, Transportation and Infrastructure, before becoming Premier in December 2006.  Stelmach is the first Ukrainian Canadian Premier of Alberta, and second Ukrainian Canadian to have been elected a provincial Premier.