London West Liberal MP was appointed as the government House leader and minister of democratic institutions on March 14, 2026. She stood alongside Prime Minister Mark Carney and Governor General Mary Simon during the announcement. CBC
Arielle Kayabaga, the Member of Parliament for London West, has been appointed as the government House leader and minister of democratic institutions in Prime Minister Mark Carney’s cabinet. She was officially sworn in during a ceremony in Ottawa on Friday afternoon.
Kayabaga, a former city councillor, has been a federal politician since 2021. She said she plans to use her new role to advocate for London and southwestern Ontario.
"As someone who grew up in London and has represented the city at both municipal and federal levels, I want to make sure London’s voice is heard in cabinet,” she said. “I also want to ensure southwestern Ontario is part of important national decisions."
Her appointment comes as Carney forms a new cabinet, replacing 18 former ministers who are not returning. Some have chosen not to run in the next election, while others were replaced as part of the prime minister’s efforts to reshape the government.
Kayabaga takes over the House leader role from Karina Gould, who previously held the position before stepping away from cabinet.
She emphasized the importance of southwestern Ontario in trade and manufacturing, particularly as Canada faces economic challenges with the United States. She believes her experience in municipal and federal politics will help her in this new role.
Having worked through major crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, Kayabaga said she understands how to collaborate with different political voices. She also noted that her role will involve managing the party’s daily operations and legislative agenda, though a federal election may be called soon.
When asked if she expects to keep the role if the Liberals win the next election, she said the decision rests with the prime minister.
“We serve at the pleasure of the prime minister, and if he asks me to continue, I’ll be happy to do so,” she said.
Her second role as minister of democratic institutions focuses on maintaining the fairness and security of Canada’s elections. Political expert Laura Stephenson noted that this title does not always come with specific policies but signals a general responsibility for protecting democracy.
Kayabaga did not outline specific plans but stressed the importance of preventing foreign interference and ensuring secure elections.
Her selection could reflect Carney’s priorities for the Liberal Party, Stephenson added.
"Kayabaga is a young, fresh voice with a diverse background. This could signal an effort to engage younger Canadians and strengthen democratic institutions," she said.
Kayabaga's experience in local politics may also help her during elections. "Having worked at different levels of government, she understands how to mobilize people," Stephenson said.
She is the first politician from London to hold a federal cabinet position since Conservative MP Ed Holder lost his seat in 2015.
