ONTARIO NDP Leader Andrea Horwath appointed MPP Jagmeet Singh as Deputy Leader of the party on Monday, thus making him the first turbaned Sikh to hold such a position in Canadian politics.

Horwath said: “I’m proud to name Jagmeet Singh as Deputy Leader. I know that  having him serve in this important role will help to further broaden the reach of our party with people outside of politics; from young people to Bay Street professionals.”

Singh told reporters: “I’m blown away and I’m really thankful for the position.”

He added: “I would never have thought that a little kid from Windsor would end up being a deputy leader of a provincial party one day so it’s a great honour.”

The Toronto Star reported that Singh had been avoiding their questions about whether or not he would switch to federal politics. But now it is confirmed that he will stay in provincial politics.

It has been over a decade since Ontario’s NDP caucus had a deputy leader.

Horwath said: “Jagmeet Singh has been a dynamic force ever since being elected in 2011, and a proven agent of change. He has inspired increased political participation in a generation of youth who view him not only as a community leader, but as a mentor.”

She added: “When New Democrats championed the demand for a province wide reduction of Auto Insurance rates and pushed for greater awareness regarding precarious employment created by temporary job agencies Jagmeet was at the forefront. With him as our Deputy Leader, New Democrats will continue delivering for Ontarians.”

“I’m so honoured to belong to a party that commends members for standing up for what is right and just. Over the past few years we have worked continuously to not just voice the concerns of the community but achieve actual change. As deputy leader I will continue the fight for fairness across the province,” said Singh.