Following the resignation of Elizabeth Weir on October 8, 2004, the New Brunswick New Democratic Party will hold a leadership election for the first time since 1988 on September 25, 2005. The New Brunswick NDP is a social democratic political party in the Province of New Brunswick, Canada.

Candidates

The particulars for the convention were determined on January 15 and the deadline for candidates to enter the race is June 23, 2005, however, as of April 19, no candidates have come forward.

Weir has said she expects candidates to come forward after the rules for the race are set while some commentators have said that the party may find no credible candidate to replace Weir. Many members of the party are urging Weir to rescind her resignation and stay on.

The convention will be held in Fredericton on September 23, 24 & 25, 2005 with the vote for leader to be held on September 25.

The new leader will be chosen by a one member one vote system and members can vote either by mail or at the convention.

Non-candidates

The following potential candidates have announced that they will not run for the leadership.

• Yvon Godin, NDP Member of Parliament for Acadie-Bathurst
• Tom Mann, president of the New Brunswick Public Employees Union

Timeline

• October 8, 2004 - Elizabeth Weir resigns from the leadership of the NDP, a post she has held since 1988. Weir will stay on as leader until her successor is chosen.
• January 15, 2005 - The NDP's Provincial Council meets in Moncton and decides to delay the vote from spring to fall.
• March 23, 2005 - The NDP announces the date of its convention and the rules for the conduct thereof.