Manitoba Cabinet Shuffle – January 30, 2023
Premier Heather Stefanson embarked upon a cabinet shuffle today, just three days after the announcement by Finance Minister Cameron Friesen that he is leaving provincial politics to pursue a federal nomination. Friesen’s announcement follows several other PC colleagues who have indicated that they are not re-offering.

Written By
Wes McLean
Overview
Four MLAs are elevated to cabinet, including James Teitsma as Minister of Government Services, Janice Morley-Lecomte as Minister of Mental Health, and Kevin Klein as Minister of Environment. The fourth is Obby Khan as Minister of Sport, Culture and Hertiage. Khan is Manitoba’s first Muslim Canadian MLA, and now, Manitoba’s first Muslim Canadian cabinet minister.
Various minister took on different roles. Cliff Cullen is the Minister of Finance, while retaining the role of deputy premier. Eileen Clarke goes back to a familiar role, as Minister of Indigenous Reconciliation and Northern Relations.
Jeff Wharton is now Minister of Economic Development and Trade, while Sarah Guillemard takes over the Advanced Education portfolio.
Jon Reyes is now Minister of Labour and Immigration. Andrew Smith assumes the role of Minister of Municipal Relations, and Minister responsible for Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries.
Manitobans will head to the polls in October. The PCs are in their second term, having been elected under Brian Pallister in 2016, and re-elected in 2019. Stefanson became PC leader and premier in 2021 after Pallister’s resignation, in a close race against former federal MP and cabinet minister Shelly Glover.
In her remarks, Premier Stefanson struck a positive chord, noting, “In the face of adversity, our people rise to the challenge. Our job is to reflect that hope and resilience, and to continually work to improve the lives of Manitobans. This team is reflective of the people we serve. We are invigorated, and excited to continue the necessary job of enhancing our province. “
News Release
The news release and backgrounder are attached in the following link below:

About
Wes McLean
Wes McLean is a Senior Consultant with the Capital Hill Group, who spent 18 years advising conservative governments in Ottawa, New Brunswick and Manitoba. He most recently served as deputy chief of staff to Premier Blaine Higgs.