The wildlife branch said Lazy Bear's licence has been rescinded for the 2025 season because of the continuing decline in the number of polar bears on the western side of Hudson Bay.

"This decision is intended to align with Manitoba's conservation priorities for polar bears and the protection of the sensitive tundra ecosystem," wildlife branch director Maria Arlt said in a letter to Daudrich on Feb. 27.

"Additionally, concerns about the potential habituation of polar bears to vehicles, which poses safety risks, further underscore the necessity of this limit."

"I believe the bureaucracy is being weaponized by Wab Kinew against me," said Daudrich, claiming he is ahead of Fort Whyte MLA Obby Khan in the PC leadership race.