The leadership race to replace outgoing Quebec Premier François Legault concludes Sunday, with results expected to be announced in the afternoon in Drummondville, Que.
Either Christine Fréchette or Bernard Drainville will take charge of the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) — and the province — until the next general election currently set for Oct. 5.
Drainville, 62, has positioned himself as the candidate best suited to defend Quebec identity and to adopt a stricter immigration policy.
Justice Minister Simon Jolin-Barrette, Health Minister Sonia Bélanger and Transport Minister Jonatan Julien announced earlier this week they’re endorsing Drainville in the leadership race. He also has the support of 20 MNAs and another minister.
Christine Fréchette, 55, has campaigned as the more centrist candidate by focusing on economic issues. She has the support of 41 MNAs in total, including 17 ministers.
Among those backing Fréchette are Immigration Minister Jean-François Roberge, Environment Minister Benoit Charette and Finance Minister Eric Girard, as well as former social services minister Lionel Carmant.
More than 20,500 CAQ members are eligible to vote for their next leader, according to figures provided by the party last month. Voting began April 7 and members are able to cast a ballot until 3 p.m. Sunday.
Legault told Radio-Canada last week he plans to vote in the leadership race — but wouldn’t say for whom.
Stay tuned for updates to this story.
