Photo: Ken Robertson

The South Okanagan-West Kootenay riding has a Liberal candidate added to those vying to unseat MP Richard Cannings in the upcoming federal election.

Ken Robertson is running for the job, a newcomer to the local political scene. In the last two federal elections, Connie Denesiuk was the Liberal nominee, failing to secure the seat both times.

Robertson is a Secwepemc from the Neskonlith Indian Band in south-central British Columbia, and was raised in East Vancouver. He then moved to Toronto and held positions at the Tumivut Youth Shelter, and later the Native Canadian Centre of Toronto.

Robertson soon began advocating for parents of autistic children after two of his own kids were diagnosed. He received a Meritorious Service Medal from the Governor General for his advocacy work.

The Liberal party's official information release regarding Robertson reads that he is "passionate about investing in a fairer, greener economy that empowers future generations and making life better for families right here in our community."

Robertson joins Richard Cannings, NDP incumbent, Conservative Helena Konanz, Green Party's Tara Howse and People's Party of Canada's Sean Taylor in attempting to earn South Okanagan-West Kootenay votes.

Canada goes to the polls Sept. 20.