Former Member of Parliament Paul Manly has officially announced his return to federal politics, launching his candidacy for the Green Party in Nanaimo-Ladysmith. The announcement has been met with optimism from many on the Canadian left who remember Manly as one of the party’s most consistent and principled voices in Parliament—particularly on issues of international justice, social equity, and climate action.
Having first been elected in a historic 2019 by-election, Manly quickly became known for his deep engagement with policy, his willingness to collaborate across party lines, and his strong stance on issues such as the climate crisis, housing, and Indigenous rights. He successfully amended Canada’s MAID legislation to protect persons with disabilities and helped secure recognition for community media in the Broadcasting Act. He also introduced multiple motions for old-growth forest protection, long-term care standards, and a national ban on gas fracking.
Paul Manly also earned a reputation as a staunch advocate for Palestinian rights. During his time as MP, he presented Petition e-2565 in the House of Commons in 2020, calling on the Canadian government to push Israel to lift the blockade on Gaza and to vote in accordance with international law at the UN General Assembly.
More recently, in November 2023—after having returned to local politics as a Nanaimo city councillor—Manly signed an open letter alongside over 50 other B.C. municipal officials, urging Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to support a ceasefire in Gaza, ensure humanitarian aid access, and advocate for the release of all hostages. This act affirms his continued commitment to advocating for Palestinian rights even after leaving federal office in 2022.
While Manly hasn’t made a new public statement specifically about Gaza in the context of his 2025 campaign launch, his record and continued involvement in advocacy suggest that he may be is one of the stronger voices in Canadian politics on the issue, assuming that he follows through and is not dissuaded by May and Pedneault.
Following the 2021 election, Manly shifted his focus to the local level, serving as executive director of the Nanaimo Unitarian Shelter and later winning a seat on Nanaimo City Council. There, he continued to work on housing and greenspace protection and served on both the Regional Hospital and District Boards.
As the Green Party heads into the 2025 federal election, Manly’s candidacy provides a boost of credibility and grounded leadership. While the current federal co-leaders have struggled to connect on core issues like Palestine, Manly brings a history of clear and courageous advocacy.
