A classified briefing document, presented at the Foreign Interference Commission’s public inquiry, revealed that Canada’s intelligence agency, CSIS, informed the Prime Minister’s Office in February 2023 about suspected covert interference by the Chinese government in the 2019 and 2021 federal elections.
The document highlighted the clandestine nature of the alleged interference, stating that it primarily supported candidates deemed “pro-PRC” or “neutral” on issues favorable to the Chinese government. At least 11 candidates and 13 staff members were implicated, with multiple political parties allegedly involved.
Specifically, the briefing noted activities aimed at dissuading Canadians, particularly of Chinese heritage, from supporting the Conservative Party and its leader Erin O’Toole. It suggested a link between these efforts and media articles resembling those published by Chinese state media, as well as partnership agreements between Canadian outlets and Chinese entities.
Despite these activities, the briefing concluded that they did not significantly impact the election outcomes. However, former Conservative leader Erin O’Toole testified before the commission, asserting that Chinese meddling may have cost his party up to nine seats in the 2021 election.
Furthermore, the document referenced a potential $250,000 transfer of funds from Chinese officials, allegedly routed through intermediaries to conceal its origins. Another CSIS document suggested coordination among “threat actors” to advance Chinese interests through Canadian institutions, with some individuals receiving financial support from the Chinese government.
These revelations underscored the need for proactive measures to counter foreign interference in Canadian democracy, as emphasized in the briefing’s closing remarks to the PMO. Despite ongoing investigations by the RCMP and heightened awareness of such threats, the briefing highlighted the persistent challenges posed by foreign interference.( With Inputs from CBC)