Aaron Sumexheltza has been nominated as the NDP’s candidate for the riding of Fraser-Nicola.
Sumexheltza spent six years as Chief of the Lower Nicola Indian Band, from 2013-2019.
“It’s time the people of Fraser-Nicola had strong leadership that will focus on them and their families as we recover from this pandemic,” Sumexheltza said. “I’m excited to join John Horgan’s team to build a recovery that truly works for everyone by creating more affordable housing, ensuring access to better childcare and protecting our environment.”
Horgan added that he was “very pleased” to welcome Sumexheltza to the team.
“I know how passionate he is about making life better for people in Fraser-Nicola and building back a better BC,” Premier Horgan said. “Aaron understands that people are the economy and so our economic recovery must be built around everyday people, ensuring everyone has a good job and a secure future.”
Sumexheltza is a practicing lawyer that sits on the Board of Commissioners for BC Housing, while also advocating for survivors of residential schools.
He has also served as a member of B.C.’s Climate Solution and Clean Growth Climate Council, the BC Aboriginal Justice Council, and the Lower Nicola Indian Band Development Corporation.
He currently sits on the LNIB Council as of Oct. 2019.
Sumexheltza is looking for his first MLA success story after losing out to former NDP MLA Harry Lali in the 2017 nomination. The Liberal’s Jackie Tegart has held the MLA position since 2013.
