OTTAWA -- A rebel New Democrat who defied her leader's order to support same-sex marriage has lost her bid to seek re-election under the NDP banner.

Bev Dejarlais, a long-time MP representing rural Manitoba, was defeated in her nomination battle by Niki Ashton, the daughter of provincial cabinet minister Steve Ashton. Ashton grabbed the upset victory on the first ballot yesterday.

Dejarlais is expected to leave the NDP caucus to sit and seek election as an independent. The move leaves the NDP with 18 seats at a critical time in the minority Parliament.

Brad Lavigne, a spokesman for the federal NDP, would not comment on the impact of Dejarlais's departure on the party. But Lavigne remained hopeful the NDP would keep the seat in the next election.

NDP Leader Jack Layton also would not comment on the development last night, but his spokesman said he did not wade into the local race. "The leader's office does not get involved in the local democracy of the party," said Karl Belanger.

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