The Québec Solidaire congress was a veritable flood of surprises. At the top of the bill, the dazzling election of Émilise Lessard-Therrien as co-spokesperson of QS, alongside Gabriel Nadeau-Dubois.
A resounding victory which overthrew two elected deputies, Ruba Ghazal and Christine Labrie, and which took everyone by surprise.
- Listen to the political meeting with Yasmine Abdelfadel and Marc-André Leclerc via QUB radio :
Miracle
Émilise Lessard-Therrien’s tour de force among Quebec Solidaire activists, persuading them to choose her among her adversaries despite her non-elected status, represents a political miracle. Let us remember that she experienced an electoral setback which, whether we like it or not, symbolizes a turning point for the party, having lost a constituency for the first time in its history.
But that’s not all. The big favorite, Christine Labrie, favored by observers and analysts, was ejected in the first round, defying all established predictions. A political slap that left everyone perplexed.
She succeeded in imposing the theme of rurality at the heart of a party firmly rooted in urban areas, defying established conventions.
PHOTO Marc-André Gagnon
GND the almighty
As for Gabriel Nadeau-Dubois, despite the victory of Mme Lessard-Therrien is the big winner from this conference. Arriving weakened in Gatineau, he leaves strong, solid and supported by an overwhelming majority of 90% in this vote of confidence which is unusual to say the least.
With a newly elected co-spokesperson but who will not sit as parliamentary leader, GND has consolidated its position without the slightest possible challenge. His influence on the caucus and his leadership have never been more powerful.
Mme Lessard-Therrien will take the road to Quebec, carrying solidarity ideas, rebuilding the party, organizing fundraising activities and rallying volunteers. During this time, Mr. Nadeau-Dubois will be able to devote himself to what he really loves: debating, criticizing the government and its political adversaries, and leading the parliamentary charge.
And the icing on the cake: the two co-spokespeople for Québec solidaire are in their thirties. A real generational change which is beginning and which could launch a serious political trend whose consequences could be major.
