Former member of Parliament Ruby Dhalla had officially entered the race to become the next to become the next leader of the Liberal Party, aiming to replace Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. With her approval secured from the party, Dhalla has pledged to restore power to grassroots party members and address pressing national challenges.
“I look forward to standing up and fighting for Canadians.” Dhalla said following her leadership bid approval.” As leader. I will put the party back in the hands of the party members and stand with everyone to find a solution to the challenges facing Canadians.”
Political and business background
Born on February 18, 1947, in Winnipeg, Dhalla holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Winnipeg. She has a strong political background, having served as the Member of Parliament for Brampton-Springdale for three terms from 2004 to 2011. Outside of politics, she is the CEO of the Dhalla Group, a business enterprise with interests in various sectors.
Immigration and policy stance
Dhalla has taken a strong stance on immigration, addressing concerns about misinformation regarding illegal immigrants in Canada. “More than 500,000 illegal immigrants living in Canada is simply not true,” she wrote on X. “As the daughter of immigrants I understand their contributions to the country. However, we must take action to prevent illegal immigration and human trafficking. As Prime Minister, I will ensure the selective deportation of illegal immigrants.
Having worked with the liberal party since she was 14, Dhalla has launched her leadership bid under the slogan ‘Canada’s Comeback Begins Now.’ Speaking in Hindi she emphasised the need for Canadian businesses and workers to build stronger international ties. She has also prioritized addressing the rising housing costs, increasing crime rates, surging food prices, and ongoing trade tensions with the United States.
Past controversies
Dhalla’s career has not been without controversy. In 2009, she faced allegations of mistreatment by two domestic workers in her home, who claimed their passports were confiscated and that they were forced to work beyond their contracted duties Dhalla denied these accusations but resigned from her political post amid the scandal.
In 2008, during a visit to India, she was embroiled in another controversy when police allegedly beat two children after stealing from her colleague. Media reports claimed that Dhalla initially justified the police action but later backtracked following criticism.
Competition for liberal leadership
Dhalla faces stiff competition in the race for the Liberal leadership, other candidates include former Bank of Canada Governor Mark Carney, Deputy Prime Minister, and former Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland, Indigenous MP Jaime Batiste, Minister of Families Karina Gould, and businessman Frank Bayliss.
Additionally, Nepean MP Chandra Arya and former Defence Minister Anita Anand had previously expressed interest in the leadership but withdrew from the race. Arya’s campaign was reportedly blocked by the party, white Ananad opted out of contesting in the upcoming elections.
Altogether as Dhalla campaigns to become the next leader of the liberal Party, she will need to navigate both political and personal scrutiny while making her case to Canadians. Whether her vision for the country and ability to overcome past controversies will resonate with voters remains to be seen.