Former Winnipeg Blue Bombers offensive lineman Ibrahim ‘Obby’ Khan will seek the nomination as the Progressive Conservative candidate in the Fort Whyte constituency.
If nominated, Khan would be the first-ever Canadian of Muslim descent to carry the PC banner in the diverse constituency in south-west Winnipeg.
“I was warmly embraced by this city and province during the six years I played for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and have been given so many opportunities to succeed, on and off the field,” said Khan.
“My goal now is to further give back by seeking to serve as a strong voice and community champion for Fort Whyte.”
Khan owns six restaurants in Winnipeg and has helped others during the COVID pandemic with initiatives like GoodLocal.ca — an online marketplace co-created to encourage Winnipeggers to support small Manitoba companies. In total, over one million in sales went directly back into the hands of local businesses.
“Winnipeg’s winning attitude comes from our ability to stick together and work through tough times,” said Khan. “I am a team player who will make sure I do everything possible to protect and strengthen the Fort Whyte constituency, in all of its diversity, by listening and working collaboratively with everyone.”
Though the Fort Whyte by election has yet to be called, it is imminent given the resignation of former MLA and premier, Brian Pallister.
“If nominated, I look forward to working with Manitoba’s first-ever female premier, the Honourable Heather Stefanson,” he said. “She is the right premier for the right time to help lead us through the pandemic and get Winnipeg and Manitoba back on its feet again.”
A resident of Fort Whyte, Khan has called Winnipeg home since 2006 when he played for the Blue Bombers. Based on his level of commitment, Khan was awarded the Cal Murphy Heart of a Legend Award three times, voted on by teammates in recognition of his leadership and community service.
Since day one in the Manitoba capital, Khan has actively helped many community organizations like Winnipeg Harvest, the United Way, Winnipeg Pet Rescue and the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation to name just a few.
As an athlete, Khan played football at Simon Fraser University in Burnaby, B.C. and was selected No. 2 overall by the Ottawa Renegades in 2004. After Ottawa folded in 2006, Khan was again drafted No. 2 overall by the Blue Bombers in the dispersal draft where he played six seasons for a total of nine in the CFL.
