Saskatchewan’s lone Liberal MP says his party is considering opening up nominations for new candidates to the general public.
Ralph Goodale says the idea is laid out in his party’s recent roadmap to political renewal.
In 2008, the party was embroiled in controversy after some candidates were arbitrarily appointed by party brass and nomination campaigns were scrapped.
That scenario played out during a by-election in the northern Saskatchewan riding of Desnethe-Missinippi-Churchill River when the nomination was handed to Joan Beatty — despite the wishes of several party members who wanted David Orchard to represent the party in the constituency.
Goodale says under a new proposal, any member of the public — who isn’t a member of another party and who believes in Liberal principles — will be welcome to join in on the selection of all positions.
The party will decide whether or not to adopt the idea at its national convention in January.
Goodale adds the party must also work harder at attracting Aboriginal voters to its base.
He says many of the principles that were included in the Kelowna Accord “need to be re-established as clear Liberal policy”.
Goodale adds the Liberals will likely hold off until 2013 before they choose their next federal leader.