Portage la Prairie MLA Jeff Bereza endorsed new Progressive Conservative leader Obby Khan during a recent discussion, highlighting Khan’s work ethic and collaborative approach. Bereza recalled Khan’s rapid transition into leadership after winning the party’s top role through a membership-driven points system.
“He has a drive like that”
Bereza notes Khan mentored him early in his political career. The two collaborated on challenging the provincial carbon tax’s impact on municipalities and farmers.
“I brought the idea to Obby, who was the finance critic, about the carbon tax not being fair to municipalities or farmers,” Bereza says. “He said to me, ‘Let’s take it to committee.’”
The pair debated the issue with the governing NDP until late into the evening, ultimately securing amendments.
“We weren’t leaving if we had to stay there all night,” Bereza adds.
Apology signals accountability, says Bereza
Khan’s early leadership included a personal apology for controversial PC campaign ads about landfill policies.
“It was a bad mistake, and we have to take ownership of it, which he did,” Bereza continues.
He praised Khan’s accountability, calling it aligned with his own convictions.
Energy, family focus define leadership style
Bereza describes Khan as energetic, caring, and family-oriented, citing his bond with his son as emblematic of his values.
“You can see that love between the two of them, and that’s what we need more of in Manitoba,” he says.
Khan, a former Winnipeg Blue Bombers player and the PC’s first Muslim leader, aims to prioritize unity and change.
“He’s surrounded himself with a great group of people, and it’s a winning combination,” Bereza adds. “I can’t wait for him to be the first Muslim premier of Manitoba.”