Based on coverage from Winnipeg Free Press, BayToday, and Beritaja.
The Quebec Liberal Party is grappling with a significant internal crisis, marked by the expulsion of two members from its caucus within a week. This turmoil comes amid investigations into alleged unethical practices during the party's recent leadership race.
Sona Lakhoyan Olivier Expelled Amid Ethics Probe
The latest development involves the expulsion of Sona Lakhoyan Olivier, a Montreal-area member of the legislature. She is under investigation by Quebec's ethics commissioner for allegedly using resources from her constituency office for partisan purposes during the Liberal leadership race. Lakhoyan Olivier has publicly stated her commitment to cooperating with the investigation, maintaining that she has always adhered to the rules.
Allegations of Vote-Buying Surface
The controversy deepens with allegations of vote-buying during the leadership race, where Pablo Rodriguez emerged victorious in June. Text messages published by Le Journal de Montréal suggested that some party members might have received cash rewards for supporting Rodriguez. Montreal radio station 98.5 FM implicated Lakhoyan Olivier as one of the individuals behind these messages, a claim she has denied, prompting her to send a legal notice to the station's owner, Cogeco. The authenticity of these messages remains unverified by The Canadian Press.
Marwah Rizqy's Departure and Internal Strife
Earlier in the week, Liberal Leader Pablo Rodriguez expelled Marwah Rizqy, the former parliamentary leader, citing a lack of loyalty after she dismissed her chief of staff without consulting him. This move has further strained the party's internal dynamics, with Rizqy's actions reportedly sparking the current crisis. Despite the turmoil, some members, like Désirée McGraw, have expressed unwavering support for Rodriguez, although the caucus now numbers just 18 members.
Legislative Response to Vote-Buying Concerns
In response to these allegations, the Quebec government has introduced legislation aimed at banning vote-buying in leadership and nomination races. This bill, which has garnered support from opposition parties, proposes significant fines for offenders, addressing a gap in the province's Elections Act that surprisingly did not previously prohibit such practices.
Impact on Liberal Party's Public Standing
The ongoing controversies have taken a toll on the Liberals' public image. A recent Léger/Québecor poll indicates a decline in support, with the party now at 21 per cent, trailing behind the Parti Québécois at 39 per cent. This decline comes as the Liberals attempt to position themselves as a viable alternative to the governing Coalition Avenir Québec, which is also facing challenges.
As the Quebec Liberals navigate this turbulent period, the outcomes of the ethics investigation and the party's response to these allegations will likely shape their future in the province's political landscape.
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This story was based on coverage from multiple sources. All three outlets reported on the Quebec Liberals' internal crisis and the expulsion of Sona Lakhoyan Olivier due to an ethics investigation. However, BayToday provided additional context by highlighting the broader impact on the party's public image and included quotes from Monsef Derraji about the ongoing controversies. In contrast, Winnipeg Free Press and Beritaja maintained a focus on the details of the expulsions and the ethical investigations without delving into the party's public perception or including additional commentary.
