Setyo focuses on building credibility, sticking with his roots in upcoming election

Saskatoon West Green Party candidate Shawn Setyo is hoping for a solid showing from his party in Saskatoon.

Setyo is heading into the federal election as a first-time nominee for the Saskatoon West riding, where he currently resides. He feels increased public and media attention this election will be enough to solidify official party status, and increase credibility for the party.

Setyo said the policies that the Greens have rolled out have been innovative over the years, and it took a while before other parties were able to catch up.

“Other parties seem to be stealing our policies, five or 10 years after we have originally proposed them,” he said.

To be considered an official party in Canada, a party must have 12 seats in Parliament. Setyo believes that a few seats won in British Columbia along with the Maritimes will get the Greens to that goal.

As for Saskatchewan, Setyo said he has set out his goals for the campaign.

“In Saskatoon West, and in Saskatoon, we would love to see our poll numbers hit double digits,” he said. “That would be great.”

Setyo admitted that it has been a battle for years but with increased exposure in the ongoing climate issues, he believes the Greens have found a way to earn that credibility.

“That concern has increased across all demographics in Canada,” he said. “Because the Greens have been known to be the strongest advocates for climate action, that is why I believe we’re seeing an increase in popularity, and increase in our poll numbers.”

One major advantage Setyo sees is the fact that he lives in his riding. He has keyed on affordability, along with a focus on building relationships with Indigenous leaders as keys to taking that next step.

“I see the issues that are facing my neighbours every single day,” he said. “I’ve lived in Saskatoon for 10-plus years, it is my home now. Being able to witness first hand what is going on in the riding gives me a clear advantage of providing policies that can help the people in Saskatoon West.”

Along with being the candidate federally for Saskatoon West, Setyo also holds the title of leader of Saskatchewan’s provincial Green party. He sums up his ideology of sticking to the roots and values the Greens have developed over the years to create that credibility, and a push for becoming a party with staying power.

“By voting for the Greens, you’re voting for the future,” he said. “You are not splitting the vote. It’s a vote that is going to go to a credible candidate, and a credible party.”

Setyo is up against NDP incumbent Sheri Benson, Conservative candidate Brad Redekopp, Liberal candidate Shah Rukh, Libertarian candidate Bronek Hart and People’s Party of Canada candidate Isaac Hayes.