The former Chief of the Lower Nicola Indian Band will represent John Horgan’s NDP in the hotly contested riding, currently held by the BC Liberals.

After years of serving his community in several leadership roles, Aaron Sumexheltza (pronounced: Shoo-muh-hetsa) was nominated as the BC NDP candidate in the riding of Fraser-Nicola on Thursday. Aaron is a current Councilor and former Chief for the Lower Nicola Indian Band and serves as Chair of the Indigenous Business and Investment Council.

“It’s time the people of Fraser-Nicola had strong leadership that will focus on them and their families as we recover from this pandemic,” Aaron said. “I’m excited to join John Horgan’s team to build a recovery that truly works for everyone by creating more affordable housing, ensuring access to better childcare and protecting our environment.”

As a practising lawyer Aaron’s work has included representing survivors of residential schools and he currently sits on the Board of Commissioners for BC Housing. Previously, Aaron has served as a member of B.C.’s Climate Solution and Clean Growth Climate Council, the BC Aboriginal Justice Council, and the Lower Nicola Indian Band Development Corporation.

In January, Aaron and his wife Ariel welcomed the birth of their first son.

“I’m very pleased to welcome Aaron to our team because I know how passionate he is about making life better for people in Fraser-Nicola and building back a better BC,” John Horgan said. “Aaron understands that people are the economy and so our economic recovery must be built around everyday people, ensuring everyone has a good job and a secure future.”