Sohi announces candidacy for federal Liberals, takes leave as Edmonton mayor
Posted March 23, 2025 1:31 pm.
Edmonton Mayor Amarjeet Sohi has officially announced his candidacy for the Liberal Party of Canada in the upcoming federal election, which was called on Sunday.
Although his intentions to run had been anticipated, Sohi had not previously confirmed his decision.
He will be taking an unpaid leave of absence from his duties as mayor during the campaign, as stated in a news release from his spokesperson, Justin Draper.
Should Sohi secure a seat in Parliament, he will be required to step down from his position as mayor. However, if he does not win, he will return to his role as mayor and serve until the civic election later this year, though he has decided not to seek re-election.
Liberal Leader Mark Carney, who voiced his support for Sohi during a housing announcement in Edmonton earlier this week, confirmed the federal election will take place on April 28.
The news release also clarified that while Sohi steps away from his mayoral duties, his responsibilities will be temporarily transferred to the deputy mayor.
In the event that Sohi is elected, the city council will need to determine the next steps regarding the mayor’s position, with options including the appointment of an interim mayor or continuing the acting mayor arrangement. The Mayor position cannot remain vacant.
