Ex-ABC strategist Kareem Allam launches Vancouver Liberals, plans 2026 mayoral run to challenge Ken Sim and reshape city’s political direction.
Former ABC Insider Launches New Municipal Party
Kareem Allam, once a top political strategist for Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim and former chief of staff, has launched a new municipal political party named the Vancouver Liberals. The party, officially registered with Elections BC on Thursday, will contest the city’s 2026 municipal election.
Mayoral Candidacy Confirmed for 2026
Allam has confirmed he will run for mayor under the Vancouver Liberals banner in the October 2026 election. Known for leading ABC Vancouver’s 2022 campaign victory, Allam now positions himself as a challenger to the mayor he once advised. His departure from the ABC administration came just 89 days into his tenure as Sim’s chief of staff.
Party Aims for Broad Political Appeal
The Vancouver Liberals, according to Allam, are designed to attract voters across the political spectrum. “We want the best and brightest, whether they are centre, left, or centre-right,” he said. The party’s logo—a stylized “V” and “L” with Anna’s hummingbird, Vancouver’s official bird—symbolizes inclusivity and political diversity through red, green, and blue hues.
Platform Focus: Affordability, Youth Retention
Allam emphasized the party’s core mission: addressing Vancouver’s declining youth population and cost of living. “Young people are leaving Vancouver in droves,” he said, noting the contrast between Vancouver’s shrinking school enrolment and growth in cities like Surrey. His proposed solutions include cutting red tape, expediting homebuilding approvals, expanding community centre hours, and investing in parks and libraries.
Departure from ABC and Public Criticism
Since leaving ABC Vancouver in early 2023, Allam has emerged as one of its most vocal critics. He has opposed several policy moves under Sim’s leadership, including the abolition of the park board, the city’s handling of Hastings encampments, and the actions of Vancouver Police’s Project Barrage.
Legal Dispute with Mayor Sim
In May, Sim filed a defamation lawsuit against Allam and businessman Alex G. Tsakumis over alleged comments involving a past incident. This week, Allam filed a legal response denying the allegations and requesting the lawsuit’s dismissal. He maintains that the lawsuit is unrelated to his political ambitions. “I’m not running for any other reason than I think I can do a better job,” he stated.
Full Slate Planned for City Governance
Beyond the mayoral race, the Vancouver Liberals will run a full slate of candidates for city council, the park board, and the school board. Allam also signaled openness to former ABC officials joining his team, suggesting a broader realignment ahead of the 2026 election.
Outlook: A New Political Force in Vancouver
Allam’s entry sets the stage for a competitive municipal race in 2026, potentially reshaping Vancouver’s political landscape. With a focus on fiscal responsibility, urban livability, and youth retention, the Vancouver Liberals are positioning themselves as a centrist alternative to the current administration.
For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.
