Liberal MP Chandra Arya’s nomination to run for re-election in Nepean has been revoked, adding another twist to the party’s leadership shake-up.
The three-term MP, who has represented the Ottawa riding since 2015, was informed of the decision in a letter from national campaign director Andrew Bevan—just days before an expected election call.
Arya had already been nominated, but the party’s “green light committee” reportedly uncovered new information, prompting the campaign co-chair to recommend his disqualification. It is reported that Bevan did not disclose the nature of this information.
Sharing the news on social media, Arya called his time as an MP the “responsibility of my life.” While expressing disappointment, he said,
“It does not diminish the profound honour and privilege it has been to serve the people of Nepean — and all Canadians — since 2015.”
MP Chandra Arya dedicated his career to improving lives, with a focus on affordable housing, financial security for seniors and workers, and advancing Canada’s technological leadership. With a background in engineering and an MBA, he serves on parliamentary committees for international trade and industry.
Before politics, Arya was involved in economic development through Invest Ottawa and held leadership roles in various community and business organisations. His diverse professional experience spans engineering, finance, entrepreneurship, and investment advising.
This is not the first time Arya has been sidelined by his party. In January, the Liberals barred him from entering the leadership race to replace outgoing Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, a move Arya suggested raised “significant questions” about the race’s legitimacy.
With an election call expected as early as Sunday, Canada’s political landscape is facing increased scrutiny, particularly over concerns that both major parties are engaging in political pandering to Khalistani extremist factions.
Arya won re-election in Nepean in both the 2021 and 2019 Canadian federal elections. In 2021, he received 45.1% of the vote, slightly down from 45.9% in 2019. Arya has successfully retained his seat despite a small decline in his vote share, maintaining a strong lead over his competitors in both elections.
Arya’s removal has opened a potential seat for Canada’s new Prime Minister Mark Carney, a former Bank of Canada governor with no prior political experience. It remains uncertain whether he will contest a riding in Ottawa, Toronto, or Edmonton. A final decision on whether the federal election will be held on April 28 or May 5 is still pending.
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