By Taghreed Saadeh
Edmonton mayoral candidate Rahim Jaffar revealed in an exclusive interview with “Zaytoun News“, a side of himself that most residents rarely see. On Whyte Avenue, his restaurant has been much more than a place for food, it has served as a vibrant stage for the city’s arts since 2020. Music, poetry readings, and visual art events fill the space, creating a haven for local talent.
“After COVID, we lost a lot of places that fostered art and community,” Jaffar explains. “We wanted to create a place where people feel safe, can express themselves, and add to the vibrancy of the city.”
On Tuesday and Friday mornings, retired musicians gather to play, while students take the stage on Saturdays. “We have kids performing who’ve never been on stage before, and their families come in to support them. That’s priceless,” he says. “Art is what brings us all together, music, poetry, writing, it crosses all divides.”
Despite these efforts, many residents don’t know this side of him. “We should have promoted this better. That’s on me,” Jaffar admits.
It’s this commitment to community that drives his mayoral campaign. “I grew up here,” he says. “I’ve seen so many opportunities in this city, and I’ve seen them change. Businesses are leaving, costs are rising, crime is increasing, and the homeless problem is out of control. We need different leadership.”
He highlights the challenge of voter engagement in the election day on Monday, October 20, 2025. “Almost 45% of people haven’t voted yet,” he observes. “Some told me, ‘I already voted for you,’ while others hadn’t decided. A lot of people are holding their cards close. But if people are upset, anything can happen. I’m optimistic after this weekend.”
On why he chose to run now, he says, “A lot of it is because of this city. We need different leadership, someone with experience and someone who can work with different levels of government. Businesses are leaving, costs are too high. Crime is going wild, and the homeless problem is out of control. Even just running a business on White Avenue, you see security windows broken, people sleeping, everything’s changed.”
He also stresses collaboration across government levels. “When I was an MP, we worked as a team, regardless of party,” he says. “Now, if someone’s from a different party, they often refuse to talk. That doesn’t work for democracy. I can bring a different approach.”
Community challenges are front and center. “Homelessness and crime are number one,” he says. “We need a better approach. My plan is to move people to a facility outside downtown where they can get housing, food, and social support. Downtown should be vibrant, not like a war zone.”
Economic concerns are also pressing. “Youth unemployment in Edmonton is one of the highest in the country,” he warns. “We need to attract business, work with universities and colleges, and create opportunities. If young people can’t find jobs, social problems rise.”
He reflects on his personal strengths, “People tell me I’m strong at coalition-building. I’ve always tried to bring people together rather than focus on differences. There’s more that unites us than divides us.”
Jaffar also uses humor to connect with voters. “I like to make jokes even when discussing serious issues. Young people say they feel politicians are distant. I want them to feel heard and connected.”
He also shares a personal anecdote about his family: “I have a young son, 14, in grade 10. Spending time with him, seeing his perspective, makes me think about the city he will grow up in. That’s part of why I’m doing this so the next generation can thrive here.”
Looking ahead, he hopes to restore Edmonton’s spirit. “This city had energy, creativity, and opportunity for decades. With new vision and focus, we can give people the environment to succeed again. We had sports teams, a strong economy, vibrant arts and music. We were once called the City of Champions. I want to bring that back.”
On integrating arts into city life, he emphasizes, “Regardless of political beliefs, art brings us together. Music, art, poetry, writing, it’s something everyone can appreciate. That’s where I hope to start building a city that’s safe, vibrant, and full of opportunity.”
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