In 2022, Marwah Rizqy made history by winning the Saint-Laurent election with an impressive 49.97% of the votes. This victory solidified her role as a dedicated Quebec MNA and a respected politician. Her commitment to public service was further highlighted when she became the first member of the National Assembly to take maternity leave while in office.
However, on October 1, 2024, Rizqy announced she would not seek re-election in 2026. Her decision was driven by a deeply personal reason: the desire to raise her children herself. This rare move in Quebec politics has sparked widespread public reaction, as it underscores the challenges of balancing family life with a demanding political career.
Rizqy’s departure marks the end of a significant chapter in Quebec’s political landscape. Her journey, from her groundbreaking maternity leave to her near 50% vote share, reflects her unwavering dedication to both her constituents and her family.
Marwah Rizqy: A Rising Star in Quebec Politics
Starting as a tax law expert, she transitioned into public service. Her journey from academia to the National Assembly is a testament to her dedication and versatility. Before entering politics, she was a respected professor at Université de Sherbrooke, specializing in tax law from 2014 to 2018.
From Tax Law Professor to National Assembly Member
Her academic background provided a strong foundation for her political career. In 2015, she ran as a candidate in the federal election for Hochelaga. Despite a narrow loss to NDP’s Marjolaine Boutin-Sweet by just 500 votes, her campaign showcased her potential.
In 2017, she sought the Liberal nomination in Saint-Laurent but lost to Emmanuella Lambropoulos. Undeterred, she continued her political journey, eventually securing a decisive victory in the 2018 provincial election with 61.97% of the votes.
Her Electoral Journey: Saint-Laurent and Beyond
Her 2018 win in Saint-Laurent marked a turning point. She defeated the Coalition Avenir Québec candidate, earning 17,669 votes. Despite a 12% drop in vote share in 2022, she retained her seat, proving her resilience in a shifting political landscape.
Since 2020, she has served as the opposition critic for education, advocating for reforms and consumer protection. Her legislative contributions have solidified her reputation as a dedicated member of the National Assembly.
| Year | Election | Result | Votes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | Federal (Hochelaga) | Loss | 500-vote margin |
| 2018 | Provincial (Saint-Laurent) | Win | 17,669 (61.97%) |
| 2022 | Provincial (Saint-Laurent) | Win | 12% vote share drop |
The Decision to Step Down: A Focus on Family
Balancing a political career with family life is no easy feat. For many, the demands of public service often clash with personal priorities. This struggle became a defining factor in her decision to step away from politics in 2026.
Announcing Her Departure from Politics
In October 2024, she made a heartfelt announcement. She revealed that she would not seek re-election in the upcoming election. Her decision was driven by a desire to focus on raising her children. This marked a rare moment in Quebec politics, where family took precedence over public service.
Her husband, Gregory Kelley, a fellow member of the Quebec Liberal party, stood by her side. Together, they became the first political couple in the National Assembly. Their partnership highlighted the unique challenges faced by families in politics.
Balancing Public Service and Parenthood
Her journey as a politician was not without its trials. The birth of her son in October 2022 added new responsibilities. She broke parliamentary norms by bringing her newborn to legislative sessions. This act symbolized her commitment to both her role and her family.
However, the demands of the job were relentless. She spent four days a week in Quebec City, away from her family. The commute between Montreal and Quebec City strained her work-life balance. Security concerns, including death threats during the 2022 campaign, added further stress.
Despite these challenges, she remained dedicated to her constituents. Her decision to step down was not taken lightly. It reflected her unwavering commitment to her children and her belief in the importance of family.
Why Marwah Rizqy Chose Family Over Politics
Public service can come at a personal cost, especially for those with young families. For many, the relentless demands of political life make it difficult to balance professional responsibilities with personal priorities. This tension became a defining factor in her decision to step away from politics in 2026.
The Challenges of Political Life
As a member of the liberal marwah party, she faced intense demands during parliamentary sessions. Weeks often stretched to 70 hours, leaving little time for family. Her role as an opposition critic required her to oversee multiple portfolios, adding to the workload.
Security concerns also weighed heavily. During the 2022 election, she received threats that impacted her family’s safety. These incidents highlighted the emotional toll of political life. Additionally, her clashes with the administration over issues like teacher accountability added further stress.
Her Commitment to Raising Her Children
Her decision to prioritize family was rooted in a deep philosophical shift. She once stated, “I wanted these children so much.” This sentiment underscored her belief in being present for her children rather than focusing solely on policy-making.
The long-term impact of her 2022 maternity leave set a precedent in Quebec politics. However, the commute between Montreal and Quebec City made it challenging to maintain a work-life balance. Her husband, Gregory Kelley, supported her decision, emphasizing the importance of family protection and well-being.
Ultimately, her choice to step down reflects a rare but powerful commitment to family. It serves as a reminder of the sacrifices often required in public service.
Conclusion: The Legacy of Marwah Rizqy
Her departure from politics leaves a lasting impact on Quebec’s political landscape. As a dedicated member of the National Assembly, she maintained a Liberal stronghold in multicultural Saint-Laurent. Her efforts in tax fairness reforms and education advocacy have left a significant policy legacy.
Her decision to step down has inspired debates about parental leave and work-family balance in high-profile careers. Colleagues from Québec Solidaire and Parti Québécois have praised her contributions, highlighting her role in advancing gender parity discussions.
While her future remains open, her journey serves as a blueprint for balancing public service with personal priorities. Her story continues to resonate, shaping the future of Quebec’s political and social landscape.