Historic Swearing In Of NDP Minority Government!

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By R. Paul Dhillon

The LINK attended the historic swearing in of the first minority government in BC in more than half a century at Government House in Victoria. The occasion also marked NDP forming government after more than 16 years.

Premier John Horgan was sworn in along with his cabinet including two Indo-Canadian ministers with Harry Bains getting the coveted Labour portfolio and Provincial NDP newcomer Jinny Sims getting the Citizens Services post. Veteran MLA Raj Chouhan is expected to get the Speaker’s post while Ravi Kahlon became a Parliamentary Secretary. Jagrup Brar was shut out while newcomer Rachna Singh was not expected to get anything. The ceremony began with an Aboriginal drum ceremony and was followed by the swearing in of Horgan and his cabinet by BC Lt. Governor General Judith Guichon.

There were thunderous clapping throughout and many standing ovations. Many members of the BC civic governments attended the ceremony including mayors Surrey mayor Linda Hepner, Vancouver mayor Gregor Robertson and Richmond mayor Malcom Brodie. MP Randeep Sarai, US Consul General Lynn Platt were also on hand for the ceremonies. Carole James, who is Big Shot in the government with Finance and Deputy Premier posts mingled NDP legend Moe Sihota. There was also a large contingent of Indo-Canadian NDPers on hand including former PICS CEO Charanpal Gill. The swearing in was followed by a beautiful poolside reception. And another chapter of history was closed!