In British Columbia, tensions are escalating within the New Democratic Party (NDP) as Premier David Eby faces a potential caucus revolt regarding the suspension of the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA). This internal strife comes in the wake of a B.C. Court of Appeals ruling that deemed the Mineral Tenure Act inconsistent with DRIPA, prompting urgent discussions among party members.
On the evening of October 10, 2023, an emergency caucus meeting was convened where ten NDP Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) expressed their concerns about the proposed legislation. Notably, Joan Phillip, the MLA for Vancouver-Strathcona, voiced her opposition to the suspension, highlighting the growing dissent within the party.
As the situation developed, reports indicated that five to six NDP MLAs might not support the suspension of DRIPA, raising questions about the party’s unity and direction. Premier Eby acknowledged the importance of engaging with Indigenous leaders to find a path forward, stating, “It is absolutely important that we do our best to get this right, even now, we are engaging with chiefs to try to find a path forward in a way that they can support and I hope to be able to have some chiefs standing with us.”
Despite the urgency, the government announced it would not introduce the bill as planned this week, reflecting the internal divisions and the significant implications of the proposed legislation. Making the DRIPA-suspension a confidence vote could force Eby to call an election if it fails, further complicating the political landscape.
Grand Chief Stewart Phillip criticized Eby, stating, “I think the problem is Premier Eby himself and I think the NDP has a colossal leadership problem.” This sentiment underscores the challenges Eby faces in maintaining support within his party and among Indigenous communities.
Additionally, Green MLA Rob Botterell has indicated that his party would vote against any confidence motion regarding DRIPA, further complicating the NDP’s position. The B.C. Conservatives have also called for a full repeal of DRIPA, adding pressure on the NDP government.
As it stands, the NDP’s one-seat majority in the legislature is at risk, and the outcome of this caucus revolt could have lasting implications for the party’s governance and its relationship with Indigenous peoples in British Columbia. The situation remains fluid, and details remain unconfirmed as discussions continue.
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