RDCO receives notice of candidate's intention to withdraw from Electoral Area West election

The Regional District of Central Okanagan (RDCO) has received notice of Ron Dewhurst's intention to withdraw as a candidate for Electoral Area West Director in the 2026 General Local Election.

In accordance with the Local Government Act, the RDCO has notified the Ministry of Housing and Municipal Affairs of the request. Any candidate withdrawal at this stage in the election process requires provincial approval. 

Until the Minister issues an order directing RDCO election officials otherwise, Mr. Dewhurst remains a candidate in the election and his name will remain on the ballot. 

The RDCO recognizes that advance voting has already taken place. As the legislated deadline for candidate withdrawals has passed, RDCO election officials do not have the authority to remove a candidate from the ballot. Any such action requires provincial approval and direction from the Minister.

"The RDCO's role is to administer local elections in accordance with provincial legislation," said Chief Election Officer, Corie Griffiths. "We understand residents may have questions about what this means for the election process and for those who have already voted. We are committed to keeping residents informed as we receive further direction from the Province."

At this time, voting opportunities will continue as scheduled. RDCO election officials will continue administering the election in accordance with provincial legislation and any direction received from the Ministry.

The RDCO remains committed to administering a fair, impartial and transparent election process and will provide updates as additional information becomes available.

Questions and Answers

1. What does this mean if I have already voted?

If you've already cast your ballot, no action is required at this time. We understand voters may have questions and are committed to keeping residents informed. Any information that may affect voters will be communicated as soon as direction is received from the Province.

2. Why is Mr. Dewhurst still on the ballot?

Under provincial legislation, local election officials do not have the authority to remove a candidate from the ballot after the legislated withdrawal deadline passed on September 18, 2026. Until the Minister issues an order directing election officials otherwise, Mr. Dewhurst remains a candidate and his name will remain on the ballot.

3. What happens if Mr. Dewhurst is elected?

The RDCO is responsible for administering the local election in accordance with provincial legislation and any direction received from the Ministry. We are awaiting further direction from the Province and will provide an update to voters as soon as more information is available.