Elected leader of the B.C. Conservative Party Kerry-Lynne Findlay dances on to the stage during leadership election night in Vancouver, on Saturday, May 30, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ethan Cairns

Aisha Estey out as B.C. Conservative president as shakeup continues

Aug 20, 2026 | 9:13 AM

VANCOUVER — British Columbia’s Opposition Conservatives have replaced party president Aisha Estey as the shakeup under the party’s new Leader Kerry-Lynne Findlay continues.

Former federal Conservative candidate Mauro Francis will step into the job, while vice-president Sharon White is also leaving the party board.

Estey says in a statement posted on social media on Thursday that she has decided to “step away” from the role that she has held for close to five years to “make room for new opportunities.”

She adds that she will “always be rooting” for the Conservatives to win government to get the province “back on track.”

In a separate social media message, Findlay thanked Estey and White for their efforts on the board.

“A big thank you to Aisha Estey for everything she has done for the Conservative Party of British Columbia,” Findlay’s statement says.

“Her commitment and dedication have made a real difference, and I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to work alongside her.”

Francis says in a separate post that he’s “honoured” to take on the new role and anticipates “a lot of positive work.”

Pavneet Singh will take over White’s vacated vice-president post.

Findlay’s narrow election win in May has been followed by a shift to the right for the Conservatives and the exit of key members, including MLA and former leadership candidate Peter Milobar, who left the caucus last week to sit as an Independent.

Milobar cited a lack of “ideological alignment” with Findlay for his decision to leave.

The Conservatives also parted ways with former executive director Angelo Isidorou last month.

The party’s constitution does not require an election to replace party executives.

Estey’s statement thanks Francis for taking on the role of party president but did not mention Findlay.

“It was an honour to serve the party and be a part of its incredible growth,” Estey says. “I’m deeply grateful for all the lessons and friendships I get to walk away with.”

Findlay, a former MP who does not have a seat in the B.C. legislature, won the party leadership with 51 per cent of member votes after four rounds of balloting, defeating commentator Caroline Elliott who had 49 per cent of the votes.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Aug. 20, 2026.

The Canadian Press