As we head towards the 2024 provincial election, declarations of candidates by B.C. political parties have picked up in recent weeks.
Candidate nominations officially close on Sept. 28 at 1 p.m.
The NOW published declared candidates for BC United on Tuesday, July 16, and BC NDP on Wednesday, July 17.
The BC Conservatives have declared candidates in four out of the five Burnaby ridings as of this publication, July 17, for the 2024 election.
Should more candidates be added, we will update this story.
Burnaby North
Simon Chandler was officially announced as the Burnaby North candidate for the BC Conservatives on March 5.
According to the party's website, Chandler has been involved in law enforcement, military services and business.
He graduated from Trinity Western University with a Bachelor of Business Administration.
"Simon's commitment to enhancing provincial government services for Burnaby North residents is evident in his priorities," Chandler's party profile states.
"From effective crime prevention and enforcement to advocating for essential parental rights and reducing the cost of living, Simon aims to be a dedicated representative, ensuring the voices of Burnaby North are heard in the BC Legislature."
As of this publication, Chandler will be running against BC United's Michael Wu and BC NDP incumbent Janet Routledge.
Simon Chandler for Burnaby North! With a proven track record in public service and a genuine passion for the well-being of his community, Simon is poised to bring positive change to Burnaby North. #bcpoli
— Conservative Party of BC (@Conservative_BC) March 6, 2024
Meet Simon: https://t.co/mykK3hNeJr pic.twitter.com/MsoHFoVLIE
Burnaby Centre
Dharam Kajal was announced as the BC Conservative candidate on April 4.
According to Kajal's biography on the party website, he immigrated to Canada roughly four decades ago.
He established his own civil engineering consulting firm that specializes in serving the Lower Mainland.
"Dharam Kajal envisions a future where everyone thrives together, believing that by addressing the unique needs of each person and community, we can achieve collective prosperity and well-being," the party says.
"He is dedicated to tackling challenges like high living costs and environmental issues, while also prioritizing safety, healthcare, and creating opportunities for all to succeed.
"With his grounded approach, strong work ethic, and broad experience, Dharam is ready to tackle these complex issues and build a fair and prosperous society for everyone."
As of this publication, Kajal will face BC NDP incumbent Anne Kang.
Dharam Kajal for Burnaby Centre! Dharam is a seasoned civil engineer with a Master’s degree in Structural Engineering. With a successful track record of leading engineering projects, he will provide steadfast leadership in the Legislature for Burnaby Centre. #bcpoli
— Conservative Party of BC (@Conservative_BC) April 4, 2024
Meet Dharam:… pic.twitter.com/V9SSypsgXM
Burnaby South-Metrotown
Han Lee was announced as the BC Conservative candidate on Dec. 29, 2023.
His biography states Lee is a seasoned impact entrepreneur and accomplished CEO with more than 15 years of diverse industry experience.
He has founded and led companies across numerous sectors including IT, real estate, accounting, international trading and marketing.
His focuses are mainly on housing issues and advocating for small businesses.
"As Han steps into the political arena with the Conservative Party of British Columbia, he is ready and eager to roll up his sleeves, serving as a catalyst for positive change and forging a path towards a revitalized and thriving Canada," the party says.
"Han Lee is committed to being a visionary leader, dedicated to the betterment of Burnaby South-Metrotown and beyond."
As of this publication, Lee will face BC United candidate Meiling Chia and BC NDP candidate Paul Choi.
Han Lee for Burnaby South-Metrotown! Through engagement with small business owners, Han has gained insight into the challenges of world-record inflation, profit margin squeezes, and financial hardship.
— Conservative Party of BC (@Conservative_BC) December 29, 2023
Meet Han: https://t.co/3GHU4RTVPr pic.twitter.com/X9Vxs6cKbI
Burnaby-New Westminster
Deepak Suri was announced as the BC Conservative candidate on Dec. 27, 2023.
According to his biography on the BC Conservative website, Suri holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Delhi. He started his career in the finance industry in Kuwait before moving to the auto industry.
Suri immigrated to Canada in 1999.
He has also been involved in the media industry as a radio host and part-owner of a station named AM Band station.
Suri and his wife also own three Indian cuisine restaurants in Burnaby and Vancouver.
"Fueled by a dedication to service and an unwavering belief in progressive values, Deepak aims to enhance the Conservative Party's platform through transformative initiatives," the party's website says.
"His diverse expertise and steadfast commitment position him as a dynamic force for positive change, aligning the party with the evolving needs of the constituents."
As of this publication, Suri will face BC United's Daniel Kofi Ampong and BC NDP incumbent Raj Chouhan.
Deepak Suri for Burnaby-New Westminster! Deepak stands as an innovative pioneer in technology and a trailblazer in legal victories, marking a journey adorned with revolutionary achievements.
— Conservative Party of BC (@Conservative_BC) December 27, 2023
Meet Deepak: https://t.co/SRnGsOCx1F pic.twitter.com/dLGDn9cgbj
