LJI Reporter
Tashi Farmilo

The city of Gatineau has announced that a mayoral by-election will take place on Sunday, June
9, following the recent resignation of Mayor France Bélisle. Gatineau, Quebec’s third-largest
city, is now gearing up for this unexpected electoral event.

The application submission period for candidates wishing to run in the by-election will be open
from April 26 to May 10. Advance voting has been scheduled for June 2, providing residents an
opportunity to cast their ballots ahead of the official polling day.

The cost of holding the by-election is estimated to be around $2 million, a significant expense
for the city. In the interim, Councillor Daniel Champagne has stepped in as the acting mayor,
ensuring the continuity of municipal governance. Among those possibly in the running are Olive
Kamanyana, Audrey Bureau, and Sylvie Goneau.

This by-election is a critical event for Gatineau, as the elected mayor will serve until the next
municipal elections, which are scheduled for November 2025. The city is calling on its residents
to get involved in the electoral process, with numerous positions available for those interested in
working at the advance voting and polling day offices. The city is looking to recruit approximately
1,500 to 2,000 people for these roles.

Information on available positions and how to apply will be made available on the city’s website
in the coming weeks. This election presents an opportunity for the citizens of Gatineau to
actively participate in their democracy and make their voices heard.

For more information, residents can contact the city via email at election@gatineau.ca. Further
details will be released as the election date approaches.

Photo: Olive Kamanyana has entered the race for the mayoral election in Gatineau, which is set
for Sunday, June 9, following the resignation of Mayor France Bélisle. (TF) Photo screenshot of
the Gatineau municipal council meeting