Canada’s New Democratic Party (NDP) leader and well-known pro-Khalistan leader Jagmeet Singh suffered a significant political setback after his Burnaby Central seat was lost in the 2025 Federal Election. Singh, who had represented the seat since 2019, came in third in a reconfigured riding as a result of electoral redistribution. After losing the election, he declared that he would resign as party leader after an interim replacement is elected.
Jagmeet Singh Grateful for Support in Moving Speech
Delivering an emotional concession speech Tuesday evening from his campaign headquarters in Burnaby, Jagmeet Singh thanked his campaign staff, supporters, and family at the NDP election event, frequently wiping away tears.
“Thank you and all of you here in this room, you guys poured your heart into this. Thank you so much for everything you’ve done. You’re amazing,” Singh said.
Jagmeet Singh announces that he will be stepping down as NDP leader. pic.twitter.com/c3PvzDQcyu
— Jarryd Jäger (@JarrydJaeger) April 29, 2025
“I know that tonight is a disappointing night for New Democrats. We had genuinely excellent candidates who lost tonight. I know how hard you worked. I spent time with you. You’re amazing. I’m so sorry you’re not gonna be able to represent your communities. I know you’re gonna keep on fighting for them,” he added.
Defeat Marks the End of Singh’s Parliamentary Career—for Now
Singh’s Burnaby Central riding, previously Burnaby South, was severely affected by redistricting. Although he had his roots with the community for years, Singh couldn’t hold on to his seat. His loss is part of a wider downturn in the fortunes of the NDP during the 2025 election.
Jagmeet Singh Ponders the Sacrifices of Political Life
While speaking, Singh pondered the sacrifices involved in a political life. “We pick this life because of the opportunity to make the country that you love a better place. We lose sometimes, and those losses are painful,” he said, struggling to get his breath.
“I’m so grateful to my family. You can’t do this work without fantastic people, and you can’t do this without a fantastic family behind you. So, thank you to my family.”
NDP Falls Below Official Party Status Threshold
The NDP is expected to take only 7 seats countrywide, short of the 12 seats needed for official party status within the House of Commons. Losing this status could have a large effect on the party’s resources and influence in the future.
During his final address, Singh made it official that he would be stepping down as party leader. He promised to ensure a seamless process when the party selects an interim leader. His departure concludes a major chapter in NDP history since the party is at a crossroads regarding its future direction.
