Doly Begum, the Ontario NDP deputy leader, is stepping down as the Scarborough Southwest Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP). She is making a move to run at the federal level for the Liberal Party of Canada, aiming to succeed Bill Blair.
Ontario’s NDP leader, Marit Stiles, expressed gratitude for Begum’s service and extended well wishes in response to her resignation announcement. Stiles emphasized the party’s commitment to continuing its representation of the people of Scarborough Southwest.
The Liberal Party of Canada swiftly revealed Begum as the chosen candidate for an upcoming federal byelection in the same riding. In a statement, Begum highlighted her understanding of the community’s needs and emphasized the importance of unity and prosperity in Canada, especially during these critical times.
Begum’s nomination follows the recent announcement by Prime Minister Mark Carney that Bill Blair will vacate his seat to take on the role of the Canadian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland.
Having initially been elected as an Ontario NDP MPP in 2018 and subsequently re-elected in 2022 and 2025, Begum has also served as the party’s public transit shadow minister.