NDP restricts support from 'cis' male members as leadership race begins

The federal NDP has unveiled new rules for its upcoming leadership race that restrict how much support candidates can receive from cisgender men. According to the guidelines released Tuesday, candidates must collect at least 500 signatures from party members to qualify, but no more than half can come from cisgender males.

The rules also state that 100 of those signatures must be from “equity-seeking groups,” including so-called racialized Canadians, Indigenous, members of the LGBTQ community, and people with disabilities. 10 percent must also come from young members.

The process also carries a big financial demand. Leadership hopefuls are required to raise $100,000, payable in four $25,000 installments, alongside a $1,500 non-refundable "vetting fee." The first deposit is due when nomination signatures are submitted, while the final payment must be made before the membership cutoff on January 28, 2026.

Edmonton MP Heather McPherson, activist Avi Lewis, and author Yves Engler are among the expected contenders, though others may join the race. The winner will be announced at the party’s national convention in Winnipeg on March 29, 2026. In its announcement, the NDP claimed there was “strong interest” in the contest, per the National Post.

“It will spark important conversations about the kind of future we want to build together, rooted in fairness, justice, and hope,” party president Mary Shortall said.

Candidates must also ensure regional representation in their packages, with at least 50 signatures each from the Atlantic Canada, Quebec, Ontario, the Prairies, and British Columbia regions.

The NDP has not yet confirmed debate dates, but one is expected in November 2025 and another in February 2026. If only a single debate takes place, it will be held equally in English and French. Members will vote using a preferential ballot system, ranking candidates until one secures a majority.

The new leader will take over a party facing deep challenges. The NDP suffered a humiliating electoral defeat in the last federal election, failing to reach the 10 percent threshold in many ridings and losing official party status. The result led to the resignation of longtime party leader Jagmeet Singh, who oversaw consecutive party losses in every election.