What Is 26th ministry of British Columbia

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Last updated: April 15, 2026

Quick Answer: The 26th Ministry of British Columbia refers to the provincial government led by Premier David Eby, sworn in on November 18, 2022, following the resignation of John Horgan due to health reasons. It is formed by the British Columbia New Democratic Party (BC NDP), which holds a majority in the Legislative Assembly with 47 of 87 seats.

Key Facts

The 26th Ministry began on November 18, 2022, with David Eby's swearing-in as Premier
David Eby succeeded John Horgan, who stepped down due to health issues
The BC NDP holds 47 out of 87 seats in the Legislative Assembly
The ministry operates under a majority government, enabling smoother legislation passage
Key priorities include housing affordability, mental health reform, and climate action

Overview

The 26th Ministry of British Columbia marks the current provincial government, led by Premier David Eby of the BC New Democratic Party (NDP). It succeeded the 25th Ministry following John Horgan’s resignation in November 2022 due to ongoing health concerns, particularly related to colon cancer.

This administration continues the NDP's governance that began in 2017, maintaining a focus on social equity, climate resilience, and housing reform. The transition was seamless, with Eby, previously Attorney General and Minister of Housing, positioned as the natural successor.

David Eby was officially sworn in as Premier on November 18, 2022, marking the formal start of the 26th Ministry
The ministry operates under a majority government, with the BC NDP holding 47 of 87 seats in the Legislative Assembly
Key cabinet roles were retained or reassigned to maintain policy continuity, especially in housing and health portfolios
The 26th Ministry continues commitments made under the 2020–2024 Legislative Assembly term, including climate action and affordability
Unlike coalition or minority governments, this ministry can pass legislation without cross-party support due to its solid majority

How It Works

The 26th Ministry functions through a structured executive framework led by the Premier and supported by appointed ministers overseeing specific portfolios such as health, education, and transportation.

Term: The 26th Ministry began on November 18, 2022, and will continue until the next provincial election or a change in leadership. Provincial elections in BC are typically held every four years, with the next expected in October 2026.
Cabinet Structure: The ministry includes over 20 cabinet ministers managing departments like Finance, Environment, and Mental Health and Addictions
Decision-Making: Major policy decisions are coordinated through the Executive Council, chaired by the Premier, ensuring alignment with NDP priorities
Legislative Agenda: The ministry advances its platform through annual budget proposals and legislative bills introduced in the Legislative Assembly
Public Accountability: Ministers are required to report to the public and answer questions during Question Period, held during sitting days
Emergency Powers: The ministry can invoke emergency measures, such as during wildfires or public health crises, under the Emergency Program Act
Intergovernmental Relations: The Premier engages with federal and municipal leaders to coordinate on issues like housing and climate policy

Comparison at a Glance

Below is a comparison of the 26th Ministry with recent prior ministries in British Columbia.

Ministry	Start Date	Party	Seats Held	Key Focus Areas
24th (Christy Clark)	June 2017	BC Liberal	43 (minority)	Trans Mountain expansion, affordability
25th (John Horgan)	July 2017	BC NDP	41 (minority, later majority)	Housing, child care, reconciliation
26th (David Eby)	November 2022	BC NDP	47 (majority)	Housing, mental health, climate
23rd (Gordon Campbell)	June 2005	BC Liberal	48 (majority)	HST, Olympics, infrastructure
22nd (Gordon Campbell)	June 2001	BC Liberal	77 (landslide)	Tax reform, fiscal restraint

The 26th Ministry stands out for maintaining momentum on progressive policies initiated under Horgan while intensifying efforts on homelessness and mental health. Unlike the minority government of the early 25th Ministry, the current majority allows for more decisive legislative action without reliance on confidence agreements.

Why It Matters

The 26th Ministry plays a critical role in shaping British Columbia’s response to urgent social and environmental challenges, particularly in urban centers like Vancouver and Victoria.

Housing Affordability: The ministry has introduced over 10 major housing bills since 2022 to increase supply and curb speculation
Mental Health Reform: A new Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions was established, reflecting a shift in public health strategy
Climate Action: BC aims to reduce emissions by 50% below 2007 levels by 2030, with policies led by this ministry
Indigenous Reconciliation: The government continues implementing UNDRIP through legislative and land-use reforms
Cost of Living: Measures such as grocery tax relief and expanded childcare subsidies aim to ease financial pressure
Disaster Preparedness: The ministry oversees wildfire mitigation and flood response strategies in an era of increasing climate volatility

With a stable majority and a clear policy agenda, the 26th Ministry is positioned to leave a lasting impact on British Columbia’s governance and quality of life over the next legislative term.