Voting set to begin later this week to choose B-C Liberal party's new leader

Voting is set to begin later this week to choose the B-C Liberal party's third leader since 2017, after Andrew Wilkinson stepped down when the N-D-P were re-elected with a majority government in 2020.

The winner among seven candidates is expected to be announced Saturday evening after a months-long campaign that often focused on renewal and a new course for a party that has lost successive elections after 16 years in power.

A post-election report released by the party last June said the Liberals are perceived by many as lacking diversity and must embark on a rebranding that supports the changing values and aspirations of voters.

Those vying for the leadership include three members of the Liberal caucus, three relative newcomers and a former cabinet minister.