Liberal Party Allows Non-Citizens to Vote in Leadership Race Despite Interference Concerns

Jan 7, 2025, 01:18 PM

The Liberal Party of Canada has announced it will not alter its leadership race rules despite concerns over foreign interference. These rules allow non-citizens, including international students and minors as young as 14, to vote in the leadership contest. This decision follows findings from the Hogue Commission, which revealed that Canadian party leadership races are particularly vulnerable to foreign influence. Elections Canada has recommended restricting voting to Canadian citizens to mitigate risks, but the Liberal Party has chosen to maintain its current policies, citing inclusivity and increased participation. Critics, including Chief Electoral Officer Stéphane Perrault, have expressed concerns that non-citizens could be more susceptible to external pressures. The Hogue Commission also highlighted past controversies, such as the 2019 Don Valley North Liberal nomination involving Han Dong, where international students were allegedly mobilized to vote. Statistics Canada reports over 3 million non-permanent residents in Canada, amplifying concerns about potential vulnerabilities. The National Security and Intelligence Committee of Parliamentarians (NSICOP) has similarly flagged leadership races as a weak link in the electoral system, citing instances of foreign interference by countries like China and India.