Indian-origin Canadian MP says he is ‘carefully considering next steps’ after being barred from contesting
Indian-origin Canadian MP Chandra Arya, who represents Nepean, announced on Sunday that he has been barred from contesting the Liberal Party leadership race. Arya, the first sitting MP to launch a leadership bid, expressed disappointment over the decision and raised concerns about the legitimacy of the leadership process, reported timesofindia.indiatimes.com.
“This decision raises questions about the legitimacy of the leadership race,” says Arya
In a statement on social media, Arya revealed he was informed of the decision on Saturday and is awaiting official communication from the party. “Today, I was informed by the Liberal Party of Canada that I will not be permitted to enter the leadership race,” he wrote, thanking volunteers who supported his campaign.
Liberal Party spokesperson Parker Lund confirmed Arya’s disqualification, citing Section 4(c)iii of the party’s national leadership rules. The section allows a panel to disqualify candidates who fail to meet “mandatory criteria” or are deemed “manifestly unfit for the office of Leader of the Party” due to factors such as public statements, reputational risks, or improper conduct.
Arya’s campaign, controversies, and ties to India
Arya had taken bold stances, including a promise to eliminate the monarchy if elected. He also insisted that his lack of French language skills would not hinder his appeal to French-speaking Canadians. However, some of his past actions raised concerns within the party, such as his sponsorship of a 2023 petition against a foreign agent registry, which he later supported.
His ties to India have also been under scrutiny, particularly after he met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a personal trip in 2023. The visit drew criticism for its timing amid strained Canada-India relations and was seen as misaligned with Canada’s foreign policy.
Arya’s disqualification has sparked debate about transparency within the leadership race. “While I await their official communication, I am carefully considering my next steps,” he stated.
Leadership race continues as Arya’s exit narrows the field
According to CTV News, Arya had submitted his nomination package before the deadline and met the financial requirements, but the party has not provided a detailed explanation for his disqualification.
With Arya out of the race, six contenders remain, including former finance minister Chrystia Freeland, former Bank of Canada governor Mark Carney, and Nova Scotia MP Jaime Battiste. The party is expected to finalize the candidate list after reviews by Elections Canada, with the winner set to be declared on March 9.
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