British Columbia’s Premier Quits

British Columbia Premier Bill Vander Zalm announced his resignation Tuesday, just hours after publication of a special report on his personal business dealings while in office.

Deputy Premier Rita Johnson was sworn in as premier by Lt. Gov. David Lam, the queen’s representative in British Columbia. She will govern until an election is held in the fall.

Vander Zalm’s announcement reversed a pledge he had made last week, to remain in office at least two more months.

The controversial and charismatic Vander Zalm ran afoul of investigators last September when he sold his family business, a biblical theme park called Fantasy Gardens in Vancouver. Before the transaction, Vander Zalm had assured citizens that he had given up his stake in the park to preserve his neutrality.

But documents stemming from the sale showed that the premier had continued to hold 83% of its stock, had been closely involved in Fantasy Gardens’ affairs and had used his powerful political position to gain personal business advantage.