Calgarians Mobilize: Recall Petition for Nicolaides Gains Steam

Calgary is abuzz with political action as a recall petition targets Demetrios Nicolaides, MLA for Calgary-Bow and the province's Minister of Education and Childcare. This significant movement, initiated by Calgarian Jennifer Yeremiy, received official approval and was issued on October 23, 2025.

The petition stems from claims that Nicolaides has failed to adequately support public education. Mr. Nicolaides, a lifelong Calgarian, was first elected as MLA for Calgary-Bow in April 2019 and re-elected in May 2023, assuming the Education portfolio in 2023 and sworn in as Minister of Education and Childcare in May 2025. His ministry recently introduced legislation to mandate K-3 literacy and numeracy screenings, a move intended to standardize assessments and provide early support for students, though it has faced scrutiny from some educators.

To succeed, the petition requires 16,006 valid signatures from eligible voters within the Calgary-Bow electoral division by January 21, 2026. This formidable task reflects the stringent requirements of Alberta's Recall Act, which allows voters to challenge elected officials but sets a high bar, requiring signatures from a significant percentage of eligible electors within a 90-day window.

The Calgary-Bow electoral division, located in west Calgary, is home to over 51,000 residents. If the petition gathers the necessary support, it could trigger a recall vote and potentially a by-election, shaking up the local political landscape. Stay informed on this developing story as residents decide the path forward.