Jagmeet Singh Faces Setback as Record Candidates Win
The election results demonstrate the diversity and complexity of Canadian politics, with South Asian candidates playing a significant role in shaping the country's future. With a record number of Punjabis elected, the Liberal Party's comeback is a significant development, and Jagmeet Singh's setback will likely have implications for the New Democratic Party's future.
A total of 72 South Asian candidates ran in 37 Canadian ridings, with predictions suggesting 15-24 candidates may win, and a record 22 Punjabis have been elected to the House of Commons in Canada's federal election.
Rana Aslam, a Pakistani-origin candidate, has taken a one-day leave from his government job in Canada to contest the elections. If he wins, he will resign from his job on April 29, becoming a Member of Parliament. Aslam, a Liberal Party candidate, has the support of party leader Mark Carney and has been campaigning in the Hamilton constituency. He plans to focus on issues such as new construction, road building, and civic amenities if elected.
The Liberal Party, led by Mark Carney, secured a comeback, winning 22 seats, including those in Brampton, where five Punjabi candidates emerged victorious. Prominent Liberal Party winners of Punjabi origin include Anita Anand, Bardish Chagger, and Ruby Sahota. The Conservative Party also had a strong showing, with 13 Punjabi candidates elected, including Amarjeet Gill, who defeated sitting minister Kamal Khera.
Jagmeet Singh, the leader of the New Democratic Party, suffered a setback, losing his seat in Burnaby Central. Despite this, the election saw a significant number of South Asian candidates running, with 32 in Ontario, 24 in BC, 15 in Alberta, and 1 in Quebec. The Liberal Party's victory marks an extraordinary comeback, having been on track to be wiped out earlier this year.
The outcome of the election highlights the growing presence of South Asian candidates in Canadian politics, with many winning seats in key ridings. Aslam and other winners will now focus on representing their constituencies and addressing key issues, including new construction, road building, and civic amenities.