The Bloc Québécois calls on the Commissioner of Canada Elections to open an investigation into foreign interference by China, which allegedly illegally helped defeat certain candidates in the 2019 and 2021 elections.
Global News revealed on Monday that earlier this year, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was tipped off about a fundraising ‘underground network’ that allegedly tipped the balance in favor of candidates less hostile to the Chinese Communist Party. in at least 11 constituencies.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had denounced the same day the “aggressive games with our institutions, with our democracies” of China and “other countries” and stressed that efforts were already taking place to deal with them.
In a letter sent Thursday to Commissioner Caroline J. Simard, the leader of the Bloc, Yves-François Blanchet, asks for the initiation of an investigation “into foreign interference by China and other belligerent countries in order to ensure the protection of the foundations and the integrity of democracy”.
“We also argue that for such an investigation to fully embrace the magnitude of this phenomenon, it should not be limited to election periods since many of these actions take place upstream or downstream of them”, adds- he.
A possible investigation should lead to recommendations, he writes finally, so that the government can act in order to prevent history from repeating itself.
In response to our questions, the Office of the Commissioner of Canada Elections stated that it “generally does not confirm whether it has initiated an investigation into a particular issue.”
“With respect to foreign influence, the scope of the Commissioner’s mandate is limited to what is provided by law [électorale du Canada]. However, if the allegations fall within her mandate, the commissioner may decide to launch an investigation if the circumstances justify it.
Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly unveiled a new national strategy on Wednesday to address issues related to the rise of China.
“We will do more to fight foreign interference,” the minister announced during a speech delivered in Toronto and organized by the Asia-Pacific Foundation and the Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy.
In response, the Chinese Embassy in Canada hammered home its usual line that the country cares little for Canada’s internal affairs.
Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre revolted following the Global revelations. His party is asking the government for a “robust” plan to counter foreign interference.
“I have seen no action by the government to defend Canadian democracy in the face of this kind of interference. I think Justin Trudeau needs to explain why he knew and didn’t do anything,” Poilievre said at a press briefing on Wednesday.
Canada has its work cut out for it, since the Director General of Elections Canada has already advised that Canada’s electoral law is not adapted to counter the influence or interference of other countries.