NORTH RUSTICO, P.E.I. — The politician who guided Prince Edward Island’s Green Party to over four years as the province’s official opposition is stepping down as leader. 

Peter Bevan-Baker told party members gathered at the annual general meeting in North Rustico, P.E.I., today that he will continue as a member of the legislature for New Haven-Rocky Point, and will remain as leader until his replacement is chosen.

Bevan-Baker won his riding in the April 3 provincial election, but his party fell from eight to two seats and lost its official opposition status to the Liberals as the Progressive Conservatives swept to a convincing majority.

The 61-year-old dentist drew national attention in 2019 when his party formed the Opposition and achieved the best result in history by a slate of Green Party candidates.

During his resignation speech to delegates at the party convention, he said, “this is not the Peter Bevan-Baker party,” adding that for his party to succeed “it has to be more than one person.” 

While the Green Party on the Island lost seats in the recent election, it managed to win almost 22 per cent of the popular vote compared to the Liberals 17.2 per cent. 

This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 17, 2023.

The Canadian Press