Half of NDP candidate signatories must be “non-cis” men

The leadership race for the NDP is underway as its latest rules stipulate that at least half of any candidates’ 500 required signatures come from party members who identify as anything but a "cis man"

Source: X

The leadership race for the New Democratic Party is underway and its latest rules stipulate that at least half of any candidates’ 500 required signatures come from party members who identify as anything but a “cis man.”

According to the party’s Rules and Governing Leadership Contest, “at least fifty percent (50%) of the total required signatures must be from members who do not identify as a cis man.”

A “cis man” is someone who identifies with the sex they were assigned at birth.

The NDP’s leadership race began on Tuesday and will run until March 28, 2026.

Voting members will be given a preferential ballot, which allows them to rank candidates in their preferred order.

At least 500 total signatures will be required for prospective candidates.

“A minimum of one hundred (100) signatures must be from members of equity-seeking groups, including but not limited to racialized members, Indigenous members, members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, and persons living with disabilities,” reads the contest rules.

Candidates must also ensure that at least 10 per cent of the total required signatures come from “young New Democrats at the time of signature collection.”

According to Elections Canada, youth voters are aged 18-24.

At least 50 will need to come from residents in Atlantic Canada, Quebec, Ontario, the Prairies, British Columbia, and the territories.

The new leader will be announced during the NDP’s national convention in Winnipeg on March 29, 2026.

Former party leader Jagmeet Singh stepped down following April’s general election after the NDP saw its worst voter turnout on record, resulting in the NDP losing its official party status.

Candidates vying to replace Singh will also have to raise $100,000 to enter the race, with the first payment of $25,000 due once 500 signatures have been collected. The final installment of $25,000 must be in by the end of January.

Additionally, candidates are required to submit a non-refundable vetting fee of $1,500.

The NDP leadership debate is expected to take place in November, which will be a singular debate, conducted in both English and French.

“This leadership race is an exciting opportunity for our members and for people across the country who share progressive values,” said President Mary Shortall in a press release on Tuesday.

“It will spark important conversations about the kind of future we want to build together, rooted in fairness, justice, and hope. I know our members are eager to take part in a contest that is democratic, inclusive, and inspiring for the entire movement.”