English
A new controversy has emerged inside the BC Conservative Party after multiple MLAs, former party executives, and a Victoria journalist confirmed they were told a former senior party official hired a private investigator to surveil them.
BC Conservative leader Kerry-Lynne Findlay acknowledged the situation in comments to Global News. “We are looking into it as a party, and I’m part of that effort,” she said. “But right now there are some allegations out there, and we do have to find out what is real and what isn’t. So it’s a very preliminary time on that, but we’re looking into it.”
Stay connected to every major update — subscribe and follow us on the PhoenixQ website and across our social media platforms.
Former Party President Reacts With Shock
Aisha Estey, who served as president of the BC Conservative Party for roughly three years before resigning about a month ago, said she learned on Wednesday night that her name appeared on the list of people targeted.
“I haven’t seen the report itself,” Estey told Global News. “But I was notified of that last night and that it may involve some exposure of my personal information.” She described her initial reaction as one of disbelief. “I was flabbergasted,” she said. “I have been disappointed, to say the least, in the leadership of Kerry-Lynne Findlay, frankly, since shortly after she was elected leader. The conduct never ceases to amaze me. But then this last night was just a new low.”
Findlay Pushes Back Amid Wider Party Turmoil
Despite the mounting pressure, Findlay made clear on Thursday morning that she intends to remain in her role. She delivered a speech at the Union of B.C. Municipalities, signaling she has no plans to step aside.
Her remarks came during a difficult stretch for the party. Over the summer, nine BC Conservative MLAs quit the party. Many cited concerns about Findlay’s leadership style as a key reason for their departure.
The private investigator accusation adds a serious new dimension to the ongoing turmoil within the BC Conservatives. The party now faces questions not only about internal unity but also about the conduct of its former senior officials. Findlay has said the party is actively working to determine the facts behind the allegations.
