Liberals agree on leader in Canadian Coalition

The three contenders for the Liberal leadership race have put aside their differences and agreed that Stephane Dion will be the leader of any newly-formed coalition.

After reaching an accord with the NDP and the Bloc Quebecois on terms for an alliance, the Liberal caucus met in ‘An historic meeting.' The three front-runners, Bob Rae, Michael Ignatieff, and Dominic Leblanc, have all agreed that Mr Dion will be the leader of the party, and the coalition, until the next leadership convention. This ends speculation that any of the contenders would battle for the top job in a new alliance. “I support the accord because it’s fiscally responsible,” said Mr Ignatieff. He said it provides economic leadership and offers national unity. “I've also made it clear that we are at one, the three of us, that the only person who can lead the country is the dually elected leader of the party, Mr Dion.” Mr Rae reiterated Mr Ignatieff’s comments. “It was truly an historic caucus meeting,” he said. “It was very positive…I think, a recognition on our part that Mr Harper has clearly lost the confidence of the House of Commons.” Mr Rae said the majority of the House of Commons want to form a new government. “(It’s) perfectly constitutional and legitimate.” He added that they already have a constitutional leader, in Mr Dion, who has every right to assume the leadership of the government. The Liberal leadership convention is set for May of 2009 in Vancouver.