Soraya Martinez Ferrada, the head of Ensemble Montréal, is poised to become Montreal’s next mayor, as projected by CBC News. Martinez Ferrada, who has Chilean roots, is set to make history as the first person from a racialized background to hold the position of Montreal mayor. In her victory speech on Sunday, she emphasized her campaign motto “Listen and Act,” highlighting the need for improved consultation with residents, a point of contention against the Projet Montréal administration.
Speaking at the TOHU, an arts venue in Montreal’s east end where she previously worked, Martinez Ferrada reassured the public, stating, “We will be an administration that listens to understand, that listens to act, and that listens to build Montreal alongside you.” She acknowledged her predecessor, Valérie Plante, for breaking barriers as the first female mayor and recognized the electorate’s powerful message in electing a racialized woman to lead the city.
Luc Rabouin, her opponent, announced his resignation as the leader of Projet Montréal following the election results. Martinez Ferrada, who arrived in Montreal as a political refugee in 1980 to escape the Augusto Pinochet regime, transitioned from being a Member of Parliament to municipal politics. She left Justin Trudeau’s Liberal government in February to contest for the leadership of Ensemble Montréal, driven by a deep-seated desire to serve the city that offered her refuge and a platform for her political career.
Martinez Ferrada campaigned on a platform centered on improving housing accessibility and vowed to eradicate homelessness within her first term. Despite facing controversies, including issues with a security deposit and defending candidates with questionable social media posts, Martinez Ferrada’s win symbolizes a shift sought by Montrealers for change after two terms under Projet Montréal.
Following his defeat, Luc Rabouin conceded at the Société des arts technologiques, acknowledging the tough night for Projet Montréal. Valérie Plante, absent from the election night headquarters, expressed her willingness to cooperate with the new administration for a smooth transition. She commended Rabouin for upholding the party’s values and pledged support for a successful handover to the incoming administration.