Members choosing a new leader for the British Columbia Liberal Party will have their votes weighted in a way that gives each constituency the same weight.

Members approved the change, which will be in place for the Feb. 26 leadership vote, at a special convention in Vancouver today. Leadership candidates Christy Clark, Kevin Falcon, George Abbott, Mike de Jong and Moira Stilwell all spoke in favour.

"This is a highly important vote for the future of this party and the future of this province," said Abbott.

"This is essential for the unity of the BC Liberal Party and the future of British Columbia," said Stilwell.

Whoever wins will be better placed if they can say they have support from throughout the province, said Falcon. "It will strengthen us as a party and contrast us to the NDP."

Speakers opposed to the motion said all votes should count equally. "Democracy means one vote for one person," said a member from Coquitlam-Maillardville.

The motion, which is available here (scroll down), needed two-thirds support to pass. The vote was 1,319 in favour with 23 opposed.

Andrew MacLeod is The Tyee’s Legislative Bureau Chief in Victoria. Reach him here.