The Vice President of the Union of BC Indian Chiefs wants make the move to federal politics.
Chief Bob Chamberlin has announced he’s seeking the NDP nomination for the federal riding of Nanaimo-Ladysmith.
The riding was left open after former New Democrat MP Sheila Malcolmson stepped down in January to run successfully for the provincial NDP in a by-election.
In seeking the federal seat, Chamberlin says he wants to focus on improving health care and pharmacare, affordable housing, protecting the coast with a focus on green technology, and growing the economy.
The 54-year-old, who grew up in Nanaimo, has served as elected Chief Councillor of the Kwikwasutinuxw Haxwa’mis First Nation since 2005 and as Vice President of the Union of BC Indian Chiefs since 2009.
Chamberlin and his campaign will be hosting an open-house in Nanaimo March 23.
Elections Canada says a by-election it must be called no later than July 6 to fill the seat.
