“This is a very personal decision for me,” Mr. Naqvi wrote. “As the father of five-month old Rafi, I had to think long and hard. First and foremost, I am Rafi’s dad, and being a father is my most important new job.”
The MPP for Ottawa Centre fuelled speculation last week that he was preparing a leadership bid when he recused himself from his duties as president of the Ontario Liberal Party. Now, he says, his attention is on facilitating the selection of a new leader.
“Now is a pivotal time in our party, and it is important that we ensure the leadership race is transparent, fair and robust. I know many of my colleagues are considering entering the race, and I wish them all the best of luck in their deliberations.”
Mr. Naqvi highlighted Mr. McGuinty’s success in reducing health care wait times as well as commending him for introducing all-day kindergarten. However, the premier’s successor will also inherit a $14.4 billion deficit, public sector labour unrest and questions over the decision to cancel construction of two gas-fired power plants at a cost of $230 million.
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