Black Press Media has reached out to all Central Alberta candidates for the 2025 Federal Election and asked four questions:
1) Why are you running to be a Member of Parliament?
2) What skills do you have that make you suitable for this role?
3) What is your plan to address affordability and the cost-of-living crisis?
4) How do you think Canada should handle threats to its sovereignty?
Candidates were given a 500-word limit to answer these questions. Answers may have been edited for grammar or length.
The Federal Election is April 28. Advanced voting starts on April 18.
Riding: Red Deer
Candidate: Ayaz Bangash- Liberal Party of Canada
Why are you running to be a Member of Parliament?
I’m running to be a Member of Parliament because I believe in the power of public service to create a meaningful change.
Our communities deserve leaders who listen, act with integrity, and prioritize the needs of everyday people. Whether it's improving access to healthcare, creating good jobs, or tackling climate change, I will represent the hopes and concerns of my constituents. I’m committed to being accountable, transparent, and tirelessly working to make life better for all.
What skills do you have that make you suitable for this role?
I have deep roots in our community and a clear understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities we face. Driven by a passion to serve, I am committed to representing the people of Red Deer with integrity, transparency, and dedication to their values.
With a strong blend of leadership, community engagement, and 20 years of business experience, I am well-equipped to serve as Member of Parliament.
My commitment to public service is reflected in my extensive volunteer work, including leadership roles with the Canadian Red Cross. I've been involved in emergency preparedness, fundraising, and community outreach programs, which have deepened my understanding of our community’s needs and strengthened my resolve to continue making a positive impact.
What is your plan to address affordability and the cost-of-living crisis?
I will fight for solutions to make life more affordable. Here’s the Liberal Plan:
Accelerate Home Construction: Promote modular housing to reduce costs and construction times.
Eliminate GST for First-Time Homebuyers: Remove GST on homes under $1 million to make homeownership more accessible.
Incentivize Skilled Trades: Expand training and apprenticeship programs to grow the workforce.
Preserve Rent Prices: Protect affordable rental units for low- and middle-income Canadians.
Increase Minimum Wage: Raise wages to match the rising cost of living.
Enhance Income Support: Expand programs like the Canada Child Benefit and Guaranteed Income Supplement.
Reduce Tuition Costs: Make post-secondary education more affordable by increasing funding and reducing tuition fees.
Healthcare Reform: Invest in universal healthcare to reduce medical costs for all Canadians.
Address Food and Goods Prices: Introduce policies to lower the costs of essentials, like food.
Support for Small Businesses: Offer financial support and incentives to help small and medium-sized businesses.
How do you think Canada should handle threats to its sovereignty?
Canada must stand strong in the face of unjustified U.S. tariffs that threaten our industries and workers.
It’s time to reduce our reliance on the U.S. market by diversifying our trade partnerships—expanding ties with the EU, Indo-Pacific, and African nations to create a more resilient, global Canadian economy.
When faced with unfair trade practices, we won’t hesitate to respond with strategic, targeted counter-tariffs that defend Canadian jobs and industries while sending a clear message: Canada will always stand up for itself.
Canadian sovereignty is non-negotiable. We believe in cooperation—not submission.
We will invest in our military, cybersecurity, and economic strength to ensure Canada can stand independently and confidently on the world stage.
We will continue to lead at the World Trade Organization, championing fair rules and a level playing field for all.
We work with partners, but we never surrender our values or autonomy.
