BC Green Leader Emily Lowan to Run in Saanich North After Rob Botterell Retires

BC Green Party MLA Rob Botterell has announced his retirement from politics, opening the door for party leader Emily Lowan to contest the Saanich North and the Islands riding in the upcoming provincial election.

Botterell confirmed his decision during a joint news conference with Lowan in Victoria. Lowan will now seek the seat, which has been held by the Greens since Adam Olsen won it in 2017 and was retained by Botterell in the 2024 election. Elections BC records show Botterell was elected with the Green Party in 2024.

The riding is considered significant for the BC Greens, given the party’s established support in the area. The party had previously selected Botterell as its candidate for the riding in 2024, and he currently serves as its MLA.

Launching the BC Greens’ campaign, Lowan focused her criticism on Premier David Eby and the NDP government, arguing that the election should centre on the provincial government’s record and policies rather than U.S. President Donald Trump.

Lowan has led the BC Green Party since September 2025. She previously worked as a climate justice organizer and researcher and was involved in student leadership at the University of Victoria.