Former Brampton MP Aspires to Become First Woman of Indian Origin as Prime Minister
Ruby Dhalla, former Liberal MP for Brampton—Springdale, has announced her intention to run in the Liberal leadership race, setting her sights on becoming Canada’s first woman of Indian origin elected as Prime Minister.
Dhalla, a business owner, chiropractor, and model, confirmed her plans to replace outgoing Prime Minister Justin Trudeau after his resignation earlier this month.
Dhalla says her campaign will bring something unique to the leadership race.
“We need to ensure we get the respect that Canada deserves on the international stage. I will stand up and fight for all Canadians,” Dhalla said
Leadership hopefuls have until Thursday at 5 p.m. to submit their nomination papers, complete with 300 signatures from registered Liberals and a $50,000 deposit.
Dhalla served as MP for Brampton—Springdale from 2004 to 2011, winning three consecutive elections before losing her seat in 2011. Her tenure was marked by significant contributions to youth and multiculturalism, but also controversy.
In 2009, Dhalla stepped down as Liberal Youth and Multiculturalism Critic amid allegations of mistreatment of two caregivers at her family’s Mississauga home. Dhalla has maintained that the allegations were part of a smear campaign.
Dhalla also highlighted her experience fostering international relations, recounting her visit to Washington, D.C. during Donald Trump’s inauguration. She used the opportunity to network with U.S. politicians and address Trump’s remarks on annexing Canada.
“It’s an opportunity to educate and ensure we protect Canadian jobs and the economy,” she said. “Trump’s comments are no longer a joke; they are serious business.”
Dhalla joins an already competitive race, with Mark Carney, Chandra Arya, and Karina Gould among the candidates vying for the leadership position. Chrystia Freeland has yet to confirm her candidacy, while Michael Clark, a self-described Christian community organizer, has entered the race with a campaign to “make the party pro-life.”
The Liberal leadership race deadline is tomorrow, and Canadians are watching closely as the contest shapes up to determine the future direction of the party.