Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has made claims that China attempted to interfere in the Canadian electoral process on two occasions, in 2019 and 2021. Despite these assertions, Trudeau emphasized that the elections were conducted fairly and the outcomes were determined solely by the Canadian electorate. Speaking before a commission investigating allegations of foreign meddling in the polls on April 10, Trudeau reiterated his confidence in the integrity of the electoral system.
The establishment of the commission followed reports in the media regarding China's purported interference in Canadian elections. However, the Chinese embassy in Canada has refuted any involvement in Canadian domestic affairs.
According to reports, the commission is expected to release its preliminary report by May 3, with a final report scheduled by the end of 2024.
Previously, there were accusations of Indian interference in the elections, but these claims were subsequently dismissed by the Canadian authorities.
The Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) stated on April 8 that China had engaged in covert and deceptive interference in both the 2019 and 2021 elections. During a briefing to the commission, CSIS underscored their awareness of the clandestine activities conducted by the People's Republic of China (PRC).
It's worth noting that Trudeau's Liberal Party emerged victorious in both elections. However, Erin O'Toole, the leading campaigner for the Conservative Party during the 2021 election, estimated that Chinese interference may have cost his party up to nine seats.
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