Candidate Questions: Peter Njenga

1. Why are you running for office?

This is a consequential election for Canada. As an entrepreneur and community builder, I wanted to step up and join Team Mark Carney and make sure this community has a voice at the table.

2. How does your party plan to address the issue of U.S. tariffs?

This trade war hurts workers on both sides of the border. We will fight for our workers and business, protect our sovereignty amid these unjustified attacks, and build a stronger economy that is less reliant on the US.

3. How would you address the challenges facing some Aboriginal communities across our region?

The path forward to a strong Canada relies on full partnership with Indigenous peoples. We will work closely with Indigenous communities and support the realization of their rights and priorities, including expanding their participation in the building of major projects.

4. What’s your stance on the development of pipelines?

We will invest in nation-building projects so Canada can be a world leader in both conventional and clean energy. This will expand Canadian products to new markets while supporting workers.

5. How high a priority is affordable childcare for your party? What’s your party’s pitch?

Affordable childcare is essential to Canadian families and I am proud that it is a Liberal government that implemented a national childcare plan. A Carney government will ensure these programs will be protected and that families in Prince George—Peace River—Northern Rockies continue to have access to affordable childcare.

6. In light of Canada/USA relations, does Canada need to diversify its economy? If yes, in what way?

We need to build a new economy that is fundamentally less reliant on the US. Trade diversification is critical. We will invest in trade and productivity enabling infrastructure like ports, railways, airports and highways, to ensure we have the foundations for Canadian products to move to markets.

7. What would you do to help seniors?

A Liberal government will allow seniors more flexibility in choosing when to draw from their retirement savings as well as increasing the GIS by 5% for one year, providing up to $652 more to low-income seniors, tax-free. While the Conservative Party voted against supports for seniors, we will make it easer for seniors to weather this economic uncertainty.

8. How would you address the opioid crisis?

All Canadian deserve to feel safe. We will keep investing in our law enforcement and border agents, making sure they have the resources they need to get toxic drugs out of our communities. At the same time, we will invest in community resources, mental health supports, and addiction recovery to support the most vulnerable in our communities.

9. Where in the riding do you live? Why? What are your favourite places to spend time in?

I recently moved to Prince George. I enjoy hiking and the local parks with lakes and waterfalls. I also enjoy farming.

10. Who’s your favourite singer/band?

Andrew Rieu and his Orchestra. I also enjoy the occasional Johnny Cash.