Liberal candidate not expected at debate

The all-candidates’ debate for the Brandon-Souris riding is set for tomorrow — but voters can expect to see only two candidates in attendance. Read this article for free: Already have an account? As we navigate through unprecedented times, our journalists are working harder than ever to bring you the latest local updates to keep you safe and informed. Now, more than ever, we need your support.

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The all-candidates’ debate for the Brandon-Souris riding is set for tomorrow — but voters can expect to see only two candidates in attendance. Read unlimited articles for free today: Already have an account? The all-candidates’ debate for the Brandon-Souris riding is set for tomorrow — but voters can expect to see only two candidates in attendance. Conservative Grant Jackson and New Democrat Quentin Robinson have confirmed to the Sun they will participate in the debate at Brandon University from 7 to 9 p.

m. on Wednesday. However, Liberal candidate Ghazanfar Ali Tarar is not expected to be there, the Sun has learned.

Tarar’s campaign manager told the Sun on Monday an emergency medical procedure is keeping Tarar’s wife in the hospital in Winnipeg, and as a result, the candidate will not be able to travel to Brandon for the debate. Looking ahead to tomorrow night, debate panellist Deveryn Ross told the Sun he is working with panellists Kelly Saunders and Chris Hunt from Brandon University’s political science department. The panel is organizing a list of about 12 questions for the candidates.

“They’re going to be asked questions on a wide range of federal issues,” said Ross. “Based on party platforms and statements made by their leaders.” The debate will include opening and closing statements, and the audience may have the chance to submit questions, he said.

When there is disagreement, there will be “ample opportunity for the candidates to challenge each other” on positions as well. The moderator will be Kerry Auriat, a senior wealth adviser with National Bank Financial and former Brandon Sun columnist. Robinson told the Sun he expects affordability to be a major topic, as well as tariffs and what it means for farm economies in the region.

Jackson also previously identified affordability — for needs such as groceries and housing — as a key issue. When the debate gets underway, Ross said he wants to see candidates clearly communicate and show depth of knowledge. But it’s also important, he said, to see the candidates’ commitment to Brandon-Souris.

“This is a job application,” said Ross. “Like any other job application, the voters have a right and a need to know that the candidate they choose is the best candidate.” The timing of the debate makes it targeted at voters who are undecided because advanced polls last weekend saw many locked-in voters already cast their ballot, Ross said.

“This debate is for people who haven’t voted yet, and are still thinking about who they want to vote for,” he said. “The objective is to provide those voters with more information that will help them make their choice.” Moderating the event, Auriat said he believes this year’s federal election is the most important in 30 years.

His job on Wednesday is to make sure the candidates stay on subject, and that they have fair opportunities to communicate their point of view and their party’s policies. “If everyone feels like they had a chance to speak, they were treated fairly and appropriately, and it was a good night, if I get that, then I’m (happy),” said Auriat. Based on the turnout at advanced polls last weekend, he expects to have a big audience at BU on Wednesday.

“You know, it’s kind of fun,” said Auriat. “It’s fun to be in the midst of that, and to meet these people who really want to be involved in the community.” Auriat estimates he has moderated about 20 debates at the local level, including provincial and school board elections.

The debate will be held at BU’s Evans Theatre. It will also be live-streamed by Westman Communications Group and available for later viewing. A place will be kept for Liberal candidate Tarar should his situation change, allowing him to attend.

There will be just five days left in the 2025 election race after Wednesday’s debate. Election day is April 28. » cmcdowell@brandonsun.

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