OTTAWA – Former NDP MP Charlie Angus has dropped a bombshell about the party's recent election fallout, calling it an "unmitigated disaster." The implications of this electoral failure have been nothing short of staggering.

Angus, who has ruled out a run for party leadership, expressed deep concerns regarding the future of the New Democratic Party (NDP). With only seven MPs left standing, the NDP has lost its official party status in the House of Commons, severely limiting its resources and influence. This is reminiscent of the party's troubling losses back in 1993.

In a candid reflection, Angus highlighted a key issue: "People feel that the party has lost touch by becoming increasingly leader-focused rather than focusing on grassroots engagement and the original ideals of the New Democratic Party of Canada." His words resonate in a political landscape where connection to voters is paramount.

Angus emphasized the need for a revitalization of the NDP, advocating for a renewed focus on a progressive agenda. He cited recent troubling developments, such as the Liberal government’s controversial border security bill, which raises alarms over civil liberties. This, he argues, underscores the necessity for a strong progressive voice in Parliament to shepherd legislation that truly represents the interests of Canadians.

"We’ve lost that ability," he declared, making it clear that the NDP needs to be more than a top-down organization. "If we are a social democratic party, we must engage from the grassroots. We have lost touch, and we need to acknowledge that to move forward."

While interim NDP Leader Don Davies acknowledged the challenges faced in the recent election, he struck a note of disagreement over Angus’s assessment, insisting that the party hasn't completely lost its connection with voters.

The path ahead is uphill for the NDP, but Angus’s call for introspection and revitalization might just be the wake-up call they need to regain their footing in Canadian politics.