In a significant move that has stirred the political landscape, Chandra Arya, a prominent Member of Parliament known for his staunch opposition to Khalistani extremist elements, has officially declared his candidacy for the leadership of Canada’s Liberal Party. The announcement, made early Thursday morning on social media platform X, marks a pivotal moment in the race for Prime Minister.
Chandra, representing the suburban riding of Nepean since his election in 2015, brings a wealth of experience and a clear vision for Canada’s future. Born in Karnataka, India, Chandra has been a vocal advocate for Hindu Canadians and has not shied away from contentious debates, including clashes with members of his own party over Canada’s foreign policy and domestic issues related to Sikh separatism.
In his comprehensive campaign statement, Chandra outlined a transformative agenda aimed at repositioning Canada as a sovereign republic. Central to his platform is the replacement of the constitutional monarchy with a republican form of government, asserting, “It’s time for Canada to take full control of its destiny.”
Chandra’s proposals extend beyond constitutional reform. He advocates for increasing the retirement age by two years by 2040, implementing a citizenship-based tax system, and formally recognizing Palestine as an independent state. These policies reflect his commitment to restructuring Canada’s governmental and economic frameworks to better serve future generations.
“We are facing significant structural problems that haven’t been seen for generations and solving them will require tough choices,” Chandra stated. He emphasized the need for a “small, more efficient government” with a cabinet selected based on merit rather than diversity, equity, and inclusion quotas, a stance that has garnered both support and criticism within the political sphere.
Addressing economic concerns, Chandra highlighted the struggles of the working middle class and the challenges faced by younger Canadians regarding affordability. “Canada deserves leadership that isn’t afraid to make the big decisions. Decisions that rebuild our economy, restore hope, create equal opportunities for all Canadians, and secure prosperity for our children and grandchildren,” he asserted.
Chandra’s tenure has not been without controversy. In 2023, he spearheaded a petition urging the Liberal government to rethink its plans to establish a foreign agent registry amid allegations of foreign interference in Canadian politics. Although the legislation was ultimately passed, it has yet to be implemented. Additionally, his outspoken views on Indo-Canadian relations have led to tensions, including a notable confrontation with NDP leader Jagmeet Singh and fellow Liberal MP Sukh Dhaliwal following violent clashes between Sikh separatist protesters and Hindu worshippers in the Greater Toronto Area.
Despite these challenges, Chandra remains a formidable figure within the Liberal Party. As of now, he and former MP Frank Baylis are the only candidates to have formally entered the leadership race, with several others awaiting the party’s official rules before making their declarations.
Arya Chandra’s bid for Liberal leadership represents a bold attempt to reshape Canada’s political and social landscape. His vision for a sovereign republic and a streamlined government promises to ignite vigorous debate among party members and the broader electorate as the race for the next Prime Minister intensifies.