Former NDP Leader Ed Broadbent Honoured in Ottawa State Funeral

Former New Democratic Party (NDP) leader Ed Broadbent is being honoured in a state funeral held in Ottawa, Canada‘s political capital. Broadbent, a prominent figure in Canadian politics for several decades, passed away on January 11 at the age of 87.

The state funeral is being held at the Carleton Dominion-Chalmers Centre in downtown Ottawa, with hundreds of people gathering to pay their respects. State funerals are typically reserved for current and former governors general, prime ministers, and cabinet ministers. However, a sitting prime minister can order one for any distinguished Canadian.

The Prime Minister's Office described Broadbent as a “much-loved national figure” who shaped the country’s political landscape, justifying the decision to grant him a state funeral. Broadbent served as the leader of the NDP for 14 years and led the party through four elections.

Current NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh, Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew, and long-time NDP strategist Brian Topp are expected to speak at the funeral, according to Canadian Heritage officials. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also paid tribute to Broadbent, acknowledging his tireless advocacy for social justice.

Born in Oshawa, Ontario, Broadbent spent two decades in the House of Commons before establishing the Broadbent Institute policy think-tank. During his leadership, Broadbent focused on economic issues and led the NDP to its highest polling position at that time. In the 1988 election, the party won 43 seats, making Broadbent the NDP’s most successful leader until Jack Layton‘s “orange wave” election in 2011.

Former Prime Minister Brian Mulroney, a political opponent of Broadbent in the 1980s, praised him as a “giant in the Canadian political scene” and acknowledged that Broadbent could have been prime minister if leading another party. After stepping down as leader in 1989, Broadbent made a successful return to politics in 2004.

Broadbent’s legacy extends beyond party lines. Alongside former Prime Minister Jean Chrétien, he played a role in negotiating a formal coalition agreement between the Liberals and the NDP in 2008, aiming to replace Stephen Harper’s Conservative government. However, the coalition talks collapsed when Governor General Michaëlle Jean prorogued Parliament at Harper’s request in December 2008.

The loss of Broadbent is deeply felt by the NDP and its current leader Jagmeet Singh, who considers him a mentor. Other political figures, such as Bob Rae, former NDP MP and Canada’s ambassador to the United Nations, remember Broadbent for his kindness and fairness in politics.

The state funeral of Ed Broadbent is a significant event in Canadian politics, bringing together politicians, colleagues, and Canadians who recognize his contributions to the country. The funeral ceremony honors a well-respected figure who dedicated his life to public service and advocated for a more equitable society.