The NDP candidate for the Kamloops-Thompson-Cariboo riding, Dock Currie, has withdrawn his candidacy, after being asked to do so by the federal party.

Currie had been named the riding’s candidate only a week ago, to replace Gina Myhill-Jones who stepped down in August.

“I have been asked to step down as a result of problematic social media engagement two years ago, made in a context in which I was a graduate student without any designs on public life,” Currie writes in a letter.

“The comments I made then were flippant and aggressive, and do not reflect who I am today, nor do I stand by them in the form in which they were made, and I understand completely that they would be an unnecessary and unwarranted distraction from the vital message and campaign of the NDP across the country.”

Currie goes on to say the comments he made online were to two pro-pipeline activists.

Calls to Currie for comment were not returned, but BC Chair of NDP Federal Campaign Glen Sandford says the party has a few leads over a replacement candidate.

“[Dock stepping down] was based on material and information that came to light after the vetting process had happened,” he told NL News. “But I think people are looking for an alternative after years of Conservative and Liberal government, and I think that they will like what our candidate has to offer.”

Sandford says he appreciates that Currie stepped aside, noting his comments do not reflect who he is today.

“I think that he’s really wanting to move past it, but as he agreed, it wasn’t the right time for this election,” he added. “That’s where that’s at. But I really appreciate it that he acknowledged that it’s really important for people to rally around Jagmeet Singh and the NDP and the new deal for people.”

– With files from Victor Kaisar