Who gets to oppose? Sherbrooke’s democracy test

In this segment of The Pulse of the Eastern Townships, journalist William Crooks speaks with Sherbrooke Citoyen leader Raïs Kibonge about an ongoing court case that could reshape how official opposition status is determined at the municipal level in Quebec.

Following the Nov. municipal election, changes in council representation left Sherbrooke Citoyen as the only organized political party besides the governing party with elected councillors at city hall. Despite this, the City of Sherbrooke has maintained that opposition status should be frozen based on election-night results. Sherbrooke Citoyen is arguing instead that the law must be interpreted dynamically, reflecting changes in council composition over time.

Kibonge explains why opposition status matters beyond symbolism, pointing to the practical role it plays in democratic oversight. He outlines how access to staff, research capacity, and formal recognition allows an opposition to scrutinize decisions, consult experts, engage with citizens, and offer alternative perspectives to those of the mayor and executive committee.

The conversation also explores why this case is being closely watched by municipalities across Quebec, as the legislation does not clearly define what should happen when an official opposition loses all elected representation mid-term. A judge is expected to render a decision before the next Sherbrooke city council meeting, potentially setting an important precedent.

Kibonge also shares his assessment of Sherbrooke’s recently adopted budget, offering a measured view that acknowledges continuity in debt reduction and infrastructure planning while emphasizing the importance of constructive collaboration rather than obstruction.