Liberals say NDP MPP Doly Begum will be their candidate in Blair’s Scarborough riding

By Canadian Press on February 3, 2026.

OTTAWA — The Liberals have named Ontario NDP politician Doly Begum as their candidate for Scarborough Southwest following the resignation Monday of longtime MP Bill Blair.

Prime Minister Mark Carney announced Monday that Blair will become Canada’s new high commissioner to the United Kingdom this spring.

Begum has represented Scarborough for the provincial New Democratic Party in Queen’s Park for more than seven years and was serving as deputy leader of the opposition.

“I understand the priorities of our community, and at this crucial moment for our country, I believe we must come together to build a stronger, more united, and more prosperous Canada,” Begum said in a media statement.

“Our country’s future is counting on it.”

Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles said in a media statement she thanks Begum for her service.

“Our party has been proud to represent the good people of Scarborough Southwest for the past eight years and look forward to continuing that representation,” Stiles said.

The Liberals announced on the weekend that family physician Danielle Martin will be their candidate for the riding of University-Rosedale, following MP Chrystia Freeland’s resignation earlier this month.

Carney has not yet called byelections for either riding.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Feb. 3, 2026.

Alessia Passafiume, The Canadian Press