09/03/2024
Today, September 2nd, 2024 Kevin Acton, previously declared candidate for BC United Party,
announces his intention to contest the October 19, 2024 provincial election as an Independent
candidate.
Mr. Acton joins a number of candidates whose election paperwork has already been filed with
Elections BC.
Elections BC has confirmed that all previously endorsed BC United candidates will be granted
status as registered Independent Candidates on the October 19th ballot unless those
candidates choose to withdraw.
Kevin Acton, current Lumby Mayor, has confirmed that it is his full intention to remain on the
ballot in recognition of his responsibility to numerous voters and supporters in the Vernon-
Lumby riding.
A statement from Kevin Acton reads as follows:
“While the party model of government has certain benefits, it also has a number of obvious
flaws - including the ability of a party leader to remove previously vetted and duly elected
candidates from participation as that party’s candidate, without the benefit of consultation or
agreement from local constituents or the declared candidate.
I sincerely believe in the fundamental principles of democracy including, most importantly, the
right, privilege and responsibility of local voters to choose their own representative in BC’s
provincial legislature.
As a potential steward and representative for the riding of Vernon-Lumby, it is my duty to
honour the strong, declared support of numerous constituents who have asked me to remain
on the ballot and fight for the privilege of representing Vernon-Lumby in Victoria as their
advocate.
It is important to the foundational principles of representational democracy to ensure
grassroots input, consultation and decision making, with engaged, responsible voters who
wish to regain some measure of control over a political process that often appears to be
bypassing, even ignoring, the very individuals that an MLA is sworn to represent.
I offer the voters of Vernon-Lumby my pledge that I will always do my utmost to ensure that I
am ‘their’ voice in the legislature, ensuring that ‘their’ unique needs and vision are defended,
debated and articulated - by a member of the legislative assembly of ‘their’ choosing.”
Questions concerning Mr. Acton’s decision to continue to run as an MLA candidate may be
directed to Simon Dufresne, Campaign Manager at:
Phone (or text:) 250-550-4933
Email: [email protected]
FYI : A new ‘campaign specific’ email should be set up, not Simon’s personal gmail.
I suggest [email protected]
