Newly designated premier Wab Kinew’s work to become Manitoba’s newest leader is the most difficult thing he’s done in his life, but said the work is just beginning.
“This is a job in which we give it our all,” he told reporters Wednesday morning, less than 12 hours after accepting his new post at the provincial legislature.
The incoming leader thanked the public as the New Democrats turn to fulfilling promises made on the campaign trail, including hiring more health-care staff, re-opening emergency rooms and building a new cancer-care facility.
Kinew said the party will take a whole-of-government approach, including working with Mayor Scott Gillingham on issues like homelessness and the opposition Tories to address provincial matters.
Get daily National news
“It’s time for us to come together, time for us to unite,” he said. “We don’t have to agree on everything to do the big things together … like fixing health care.”
The premier-designate didn’t reveal when any NDP plans would be put into practice, but said announcements on cabinet appointments would come Wednesday and Thursday.
Kinew becomes the first First Nations provincial premier in Canadian history. Kinew said while electing to have an Indigenous premier shows a step forward, the election was ultimately about health-care.
- Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe talks trade at international conference
- Thieves cut hole in roof at Kelowna Curling Club in elaborate break-in, theft
- Calgary’s GlobalFest moving locations, leaving community in lurch
- Progress slows on Calgary housing strategy due to rezoning repeal, resource constraints
-
![]()
Canadian government short on rolling back international student permits, report reveals -
![]()
U.S., Russia interfering in Alberta separatist debate, report says -
![]()
Canadians can trust ChatGPT to handle personal data, federal privacy watchdog says after review -
![]()
Social media issues should be fixed before considering ban for youth: Canada’s privacy commissioner
When asked about the current contract dispute between Manitoba Public Insurance and union workers, the new governor said he sided with employees and hopes “the strike is resolved and people get a fair deal.”
Comments
Want to discuss? Please read our Commenting Policy first.