In a significant political development, Québec solidaire has officially designated Ruba Ghazal as the party's candidate for premier in the upcoming 2026 provincial election. The decision was confirmed during a party convention in Quebec City, setting the stage for Ghazal's participation in the leaders' debates throughout the campaign period.
Convention Confirmation and Leadership Dynamics
Party members solidified Ghazal's position during their weekend gathering in Quebec City, where the co-spokesperson received formal endorsement as Québec solidaire's standard-bearer. The announcement came alongside revelations from newly appointed co-spokesperson Sol Zanetti, who publicly declared on Saturday that he would not put himself forward as a potential candidate for premier.
Zanetti's decision to step aside clears the path for Ghazal to lead the party's charge in the next provincial election, creating a unified front within the Québec solidaire leadership.
Vision for Quebec's Future
In her convention address, Ghazal outlined a compelling vision for Quebec's development, emphasizing that "In Quebec, we have the right to demand that the country we are building be feminist, inclusive and supported by a green economy." This statement reflects the party's commitment to progressive values and sustainable development as core principles of their platform.
The sovereignty question took center stage during the convention proceedings, with both Ghazal and Zanetti using their speeches to champion what they described as a "welcoming sovereignty" model. This approach positions itself in contrast to what they perceive as the more "insular" sovereignty vision advocated by Paul St-Pierre Plamondon's Parti Québécois.
Political Implications and Party Strategy
The designation of Ghazal as premier candidate signals Québec solidaire's strategic direction heading into the 2026 election cycle. By establishing their leadership lineup well in advance, the party aims to build momentum and present a clear alternative to voters seeking progressive political options.
The emphasis on a feminist, inclusive sovereignty model distinguishes Québec solidaire's approach from other sovereignist movements in the province, potentially appealing to younger voters and those concerned with social justice issues alongside Quebec's constitutional future.
With the 2026 election now firmly on the horizon, political observers will be watching how Ghazal's leadership shapes the party's messaging and whether this early candidate confirmation provides Québec solidaire with a strategic advantage in the competitive Quebec political landscape.
