BC Conservative Board Calls for John Rustad to Resign Amid Party Turmoil

The letter was signed by seven members of the Management Committee: Aisha Estey, Wesley Graham, Ndelle Massey, Troy Lanigan, Sacha Peter, Mauro Francis, and Andre Roberge.

Committee Cites Division and Loss of Momentum

In their statement, the signatories claim the party has faced declining membership, poor fundraising, a shrinking caucus, low morale, and inconsistent policy direction. They argue that Rustad’s leadership no longer serves to unite the party, pointing to what they describe as a “lack of enthusiasm and tepid endorsement” among members. According to the letter, leadership should bring clarity and purpose, but instead, the party has been consumed by ongoing discord and public confusion.

Formal Call for Resignation

The Management Committee declared it has lost confidence in Rustad’s leadership and formally requested his immediate resignation to allow for a new leadership contest. While acknowledging Rustad’s role in rebuilding the BC Conservatives and positioning them as the province’s largest official opposition, the committee stated it is now time for “a next chapter” to carry the Conservative vision forward.

Growing Rift Within the Party

The public letter marks the most significant internal challenge to Rustad’s authority since the 2024 election, highlighting a deepening rift within the BC Conservative Party. Party insiders say the situation reflects broader tensions over direction, discipline, and the future of the party’s identity in provincial politics.