Former Yukon Party minister to jump ship to NDP

Former Yukon Justice and Education minister John Edzerza says it was "doubt" that led him to leave his Yukon government cabinet posts Wednesday.

And Edzerza says he's putting his name forward to run for the New Democratic Party in the next territorial election, which must be called this fall.

Edzerza, the only aboriginal MLA in government, resigned Wednesday after many months of doubt about his party's actions, he told CBC.

"My resignation was based on doubt," he said. "There are several areas of concern for me, leading up to my resignation.

"And I do not believe it is necessary to explain every one in detail, most have been public knowledge."

Agovernment announcement to build a school in a Whitehorse subdivision, done behind his back during a byelection, and the government's 2005 slaughter of a reindeer herd particularly disturbed him, he said.

Concerns not heard

"I voiced my concerns, but do not feel I was heard then, and I doubt I would be heard in the future," he said.

While not feeling any pressure from the Yukon Party caucus to leave, he said that "some of the decisions put pressure on me."

While chafing at decisions made by conservative colleagues in the Yukon Party, Edzerza said he found himself attracted to the NDP opposition.

"During the past several years I have realized that my goals are more in line with the NDP," said Edzerza, who will seek the party's nomination in his MacIntyre-Takhini riding.

The Yukon Party government hasn't announced who will replace Edzerza in the Justice and Education portfolios. Premier Dennis Fentie is widely expected to call an election before the end of the month.

The government mandate expires in November.