Five officials NDP Tonight, the leadership candidates will take part in the French debate in Montreal, the first debate of the race.
None of the candidates describe themselves as fully bilingual, and their knowledge of French varies widely.
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Documentarian Avi Lewis appears to have the strongest command of French, and he was the only candidate speaking the language during a leadership forum held last month in Ottawa.
Alberta MP Heather McPherson, union leader Rob Ashton, social worker Tanille Johnston and organic farmer Tony McQuail said they are working to strengthen their French.
Montreal activist Yves Englert says he is running to become party leader, but the party has not yet approved his candidacy.
The NDP will choose its next leader on March 29 during the party's annual convention in Winnipeg.
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