December 11, 2025
The Honourable David Eby, KC
Premier of British Columbia
Parliament Buildings
Victoria, B.C. V8V 1X4
Re: Inappropriate comments on recent court decisions on Aboriginal rights and title
Dear Premier,
We write to raise serious concerns about your inappropriate comments criticizing recent court decisions on Aboriginal rights and title.
Public criticism of court decisions by elected officials undermines the rule of law and threatens the independence of the judiciary. As you know, courts make independent and impartial decisions based solely on the law and the evidence presented to them, not the interests of any particular government, business, community or individual. You also know that a party who thinks the court made an error in law, fact or both may appeal.
Framing court decisions as “dramatic, overreaching and unhelpful” is irresponsible. It’s hard to overstate the damage that can be done by exerting political pressure on judges to align their rulings with the government of the day. We strongly object to comments that compromise the separation of powers between the judiciary and the executive and erode public confidence in the justice system.
Judicial independence is crucial to safeguard legal rights, making sure that individuals and communities without political influence are treated fairly and are protected from government overreach or the sway of popular opinion.
We urge you to be more responsible with your public comments.
Sincerely,
Patricia Blair
CBABC President, 2025/26