In the lead-up to Ontario’s provincial election on February 27, 2025, the Liberal Party is grappling with controversies surrounding several of its candidates due to resurfaced social media posts.
Viresh Bansal: Oshawa Candidate Under Fire
Viresh Bansal, the Liberal candidate for Oshawa, is facing intense scrutiny after past social media posts from 2023 resurfaced. In one post, Bansal responded to federal NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh’s comments on the killing of Sikh leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar by stating, “You can thank India for cleaning trash people. Ask your gay friend @JustinTrudeau to do the same.” Another post directed at Deputy Conservative Party Leader Tim Uppal read, “It’s Indian internal matter. You better take care of your own.” He added in Punjabi, “Watch out or you might get hurt as well.”
The World Sikh Organization (WSO) has called for Bansal’s removal, citing his remarks as “anti-Sikh” and “completely unacceptable.” Bansal has since issued an apology, expressing deep regret for his “hurtful and thoughtless comments,” particularly towards the Sikh and LGBTQ2S+ communities. Ontario Liberal Leader Bonnie Crombie condemned Bansal’s statements but has not withdrawn his candidacy, emphasizing that his views do not reflect the party’s values.
Rick Ellsmere, the Liberal candidate for Timiskaming-Cochrane, is also under criticism for past social media activity. Posts from 2015 and 2019 have surfaced, including a meme suggesting men only know that women have breasts and a transphobic comment mocking a woman in a dress. Ellsmere has apologized, stating he regrets the “hurtful comments” and aims to support his community.
These incidents have raised questions about the Liberal Party’s candidate vetting process, especially given the expedited nominations following the snap election call by Progressive Conservative Leader Doug Ford. The party has faced multiple controversies over candidates’ past social media posts, leading to criticism from opponents and calls for stricter vetting procedures.
As the election approaches, the Liberal Party must address these challenges to maintain public trust and demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity and respect in its candidate selection.