The executive director of the Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce will be running for a seat in the next federal election.
Katerina Anastasiadis has been declared the Conservative candidate for the Coquitlam – Port Coquitlam riding. The Conservative Party of Canada says in their news release that Anastasiadis has “deep roots in the Tri-Cities” and will be working to win back the seat that was lost in 2015, when current Liberal MP Ron McKinnon was first elected. He was re-elected in 2019 in a very tight race with Conservative candidate Nicholas Insley.
“For over 20 years, she’s been an active volunteer in the community and at all levels of politics,” the Conservatives said. “Having been raised in a Greek immigrant family of entrepreneurs and small business owners, Katerina understands the value of hard work, business management, client focus and an appreciation for the talents that business owners and entrepreneurs bring to our country.”
Anastasiadis says she’s looking forward to being a part of Conservative leader Erin O’Toole’s team, one she says “will secure our future and make changes in Ottawa for the betterment of all Canadians. I am looking forward to talking with constituents about our party’s renewed vision and to hear directly from them. I believe my experience, including most recently as Executive Director of a Chamber of Commerce, will serve our community well.”
She said the Liberals have “let down the constituents of Coquitlam-Port Coquitlam with their broken promises to secure jobs to pre-pandemic levels and provide supports for small businesses.”
The Abbotsford Chamber’s board released a statement earlier this week regarding the announcement, saying the organization remains non-partisan.
“The Board supports the democratic process and those seeking to hold public service to serve citizens and community,” they said. “The Chamber is committed to transparency and non-partisanship, and we maintain our commitment to our members and the community in this regard.”
Anastasiadis will continue to fulfill her daily duties as the Chamber’s executive director until the official election period begins. The Board says she will take a temporary leave until the conclusion of the election, and that they will ensure there is still strong leadership in place while she campaigns.
Effective immediately, though, the Board president or a Board designate will be the official spokesperson on external communications and advocacy.
The date of the next federal election is still unknown, but the Chamber has already committed to hosting an All Candidates Debate when the time comes.
READ MORE: Abbotsford Chamber names new executive director
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