A new leader emerges

by | Apr 19, 1984 | Timeline:1980s

In 1983, Bob Skelly became leader of the BC NDP

So, in 1984 an era ended when Dave Barrett stepped down a provincial leader.  He went on in 1988 to serve as MP for Esquimalt-Juan de Fuca. The BC party hosted a lively 6-way leadership contest for his replacement. Bill King, the former labour minister represented those closest to Dave Barrett, while a newcomer David Vickers had the backing of those associated with Tom Berger whose legacy was represented by MLA Dennis Cocke and former party secretary and president Yvonne Cocke. However, in a surprising upset, neither of these two front-runners was successful. In a classic come-from-behind success story, Bob Skelly, the MLA from Alberni, overtook David Vickers on the final ballot.