The NDP Socialist Caucus protests the absurdly high candidate entrance fee of $100,000 imposed by the party hierarchy.
It is an anti-working class and anti-democratic decision that will do almost nothing to reduce the party’s huge debt resulting from the April 28 electoral debacle. It will simply discourage potential contenders and suppress debate.
“Such a fee underscores how out of touch the NDP leadership is with the daily economic reality of most of its members and voters”, said Yves Engler, the Socialist Caucus candidate for federal leader. The entrance fee in 2017, when Jagmeet Singh won the position, was $30,000.
Ask yourself this question: Is it easier today, given the high cost of living frequently denounced by NDP MPs, for a working class candidate to raise more than three times the amount required eight years ago?
The NDP Socialist Caucus demands that the fee be less, not more than $30,000 and that the six-month race be conducted in a fashion that is open, accessible and fair for all NDP members.
Only a process that fosters a democratic dialog of members and putative leaders can restore confidence in the labour-based NDP, and begin to rebuild the party.
For more information, please contact:
Barry Weisleder,
Chair, NDP Socialist Caucus
http://www.ndpsocialists.ca
647-985-1917
