In Lac-Etchemin, candidates from the Renouveau team are vocal about separating their political ambitions from religious affiliations. This statement comes as four of the candidates openly identify as members of the controversial religious group, the Army of Mary.
Lac-Etchemin’s Political Landscape
Johanne Plourde Têtu is among the candidates running for mayor in the upcoming municipal elections scheduled for November 2. A resident for over two decades, she has been actively involved with the Army of Mary since 1978. The group has been established in the municipality for 25 years.
This marks a historic moment, as it is the first time members of the Army of Mary are participating in municipal politics in the organization’s 50-plus years of existence.
Political Commitments
Plourde Têtu aims to enhance the integration of newcomers into the community. She also plans to address tax equity among residents and offer a payment schedule spread over 12 months. Significantly, she has highlighted concerns regarding nearly 400 private roads that lack municipal services, an issue that has persisted since the municipal merger with Sainte-Germaine-du-Lac-Etchemin in 2001.
Introducing Fresh Perspectives
Josette Fortin, another candidate from the Renouveau team, is seeking a position as a municipal councilor. As the manager of a local Shell convenience store since 2011, Fortin believes her participation can rejuvenate the current council. Unlike Plourde Têtu, she is not affiliated with the Army of Mary but expresses respect for those who are.
Fortin emphasizes the importance of mutual respect, stating, “I made this clear from the beginning.” She acknowledges community concerns regarding the religious group’s entrance into politics but reassures residents that their intentions are positive.
Community Reactions
Local residents have largely welcomed the candidates’ entries into the political arena. A survey of over fifteen community members revealed minimal concerns about the candidates’ ties to the Army of Mary.
- Frédéric Morin expressed confidence, stating, “I have no worries.”
- Josée Panneton noted, “It’s great if we have options.”
While many show respect for the group’s beliefs, several residents preferred to remain anonymous when sharing their thoughts with El-Balad. As the election date approaches, the candidates’ connections to the Army of Mary continue to be a topic of discussion in the community.
