Priti Obhrai-Martin, daughter of the late Conservative MP Deepak Obhrai, has been acclaimed as the Liberal Party candidate for Calgary East in the upcoming federal election scheduled for April 28, 2025.
Obhrai-Martin’s political journey is deeply influenced by her father’s legacy. Deepak Obhrai served as a Member of Parliament from 1997 until his passing in 2019, representing Calgary East and later Calgary Forest Lawn. He was the first Hindu elected to Canada’s House of Commons and held the distinction of being the longest-serving Conservative MP at the time of his death.
Having actively participated in her father’s campaigns and serving as his campaign manager during the 2017 Conservative leadership race, Obhrai-Martin’s shift to the Liberal Party marks a significant transition. She attributes this change to evolving political landscapes and her alignment with the progressive vision of Liberal leader Mark Carney. Obhrai-Martin recalls her father’s admiration for Carney’s role during the 2008 financial crisis, noting that this respect influenced her decision to join the Liberal ranks.
Beyond politics, Obhrai-Martin boasts a diverse professional background. She holds degrees in Anthropology and Communications and Journalism, and is a certified mediation and conflict coach. Her career spans media, international business diplomacy, and community engagement. Notably, she founded Calgary’s first free digital lifestyle magazine, Cultural Urban Essence (CUE), and has been instrumental in various cultural initiatives.
Obhrai-Martin’s candidacy introduces a dynamic element to the Calgary East race, a constituency traditionally held by Conservatives. Her deep-rooted connections to the community, combined with her multifaceted professional experience, position her as a formidable contender in the upcoming election.