UCP leadership candidates will face off in 5 debates

Leadership campaign candidates forthe United Conservative Party will take part in five leadership debates across Alberta.

The UCP, created in July after members approved a merger of the Wildrose and Progressive Conservative parties, announced the long-awaited details for theleadership campaign in a news release late Friday afternoon.

So far former PC leader Jason Kenney, former Wildroseleader Brian Jean, Calgary lawyer Doug Schweitzer and former Wildroseparty president Jeff Callaway have entered the race.

The winner will be announced Oct. 28 at the Metropolitan Centre in Calgary.

Candidates have to file their application with the party's leadership selection committee by 5 p.m. on Sept.12.

A $95,000 entry fee includes $20,000 tobe refunded to candidates at the end of the race as long as they comply with the rules.

People who want to vote for leader have to buy a party membership by Sept. 29. They will also have to register online by Oct. 13.

Eligible voters can cast their ballots online or by phone over three days starting the morning of Oct. 26.

The dates and locations of the leadership debates will be announced at a future date.