Independent MP Kevin Vuong went after the Liberal government in Question Period on Thursday over Chinese interference allegations.
Vuong, who ran as a Liberal candidate in the last election, was elected as an Independent MP after the party axed his candidacy over past sexual assault allegations that were later withdrawn.
“Foreign operatives have interfered in Canada’s electoral system and our democracy. Media and CSIS documents have indicated that members of the Liberal Party and caucus were involved. Money and instant on-demand supporters were used to get pro-China candidates elected and anti-China ones defeated, cabinet and the PMO were well briefed on the extent of foreign interference yet nothing was done,” said Vuong.
“Why is the prime minister eager to turn a blind eye to shady Liberal nominations, sketchy donations and having pro-Beijing MPs in his own caucus?” asked Vuong.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau responded to Vuong saying that his government was putting forward a special rapporteur to look into election interference.
“Canadians are rightly extremely concerned about foreign interference into our institutions, our elections and our democracy,” said Trudeau.
“That is why we are putting forward an independent top expert who will look at the entire landscape of interference and make sure that we’re doing everything necessary and give Canadians confidence that the right processes have been followed.”
The Conservatives have demanded a thorough investigation into the issue and urged the federal government to disclose the identities of the 11 candidates that were allegedly affected by the Chinese election interference operation.
