Ottawa MP Chandra Arya, the first sitting Liberal MP to launch a campaign to replace Justin Trudeau as leader of the Liberal Party and prime minister, has ignited controversy with his stance on the French language and bold policy proposals.
Arya, who openly admitted during a CBC interview that he does not speak French, dismissed concerns about his linguistic limitations, suggesting that Quebecers prioritize actions over language. “It’s not the language that matters; it’s what is delivered to them,” Arya said, countering the argument that French fluency is essential for national leadership.
As part of his campaign, Arya proposed transformative changes, including abolishing the monarchy and making Canada a sovereign republic, a move he believes will resonate with Quebecers. He also vowed to lead a smaller, more efficient government with a merit-based cabinet, rejecting what he referred to as diversity and inclusion quotas.
Controversial Policy Ideas
Among his other proposals are increasing the retirement age by two years in 2040, implementing a citizenship-based tax system, and officially recognizing Palestine as a state. Arya, first elected as MP for Nepean in 2015, has often diverged from government policy, including sponsoring a petition opposing a foreign agent registry, which later became law.
Diplomatic Concerns and Connections to India
Arya’s ties to India have drawn attention amid strained Canada-India relations. His 2024 meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which he described as unrelated to his role in Canadian politics, raised eyebrows given the diplomatic tensions following allegations linking Indian agents to the killing of a Canadian Sikh leader. Arya defended his actions, emphasizing the importance of maintaining dialogue with foreign leaders.
Liberal Leadership Race in Flux
Arya joins a growing list of contenders for the Liberal leadership, including former MP Frank Baylis and several cabinet ministers considering bids. Meanwhile, the party faces pressure to set clear rules for the race, address foreign interference concerns, and ensure a credible and transparent process.
The leadership contest takes on heightened urgency as the Conservatives maintain a significant 24-point lead over the Liberals in national polling. Whoever emerges as the next Liberal leader will inherit not only the prime minister’s office but also the monumental task of rebuilding the party’s fortunes ahead of an anticipated spring election.