The federal elections regulator has announced that it has found insufficient evidence to launch a formal investigation into allegations of Beijing interference in the 2021 election. The focus of the review was on a purported disinformation campaign linked to China in a British Columbia riding where former Conservative MP Kenny Chiu was defeated.
According to the review conducted by investigators, although there were indications that attempts were made to influence the Chinese Canadian diaspora, there was not enough evidence to support claims of undue foreign influence or any other violations as defined by the Act.
During their review, investigators spoke with Chinese-Canadian residents in the Richmond-Steveston riding and nearby areas. They discovered that there is an extensive network of Chinese-Canadian associations, businesses, and media in the Greater Vancouver Area that provides a lifestyle similar to that of China. The diaspora also has significant commercial, social, and familial ties with China.
Investigators noted that this situation has led to aspects of a parallel society involving many Chinese Canadians in the lower mainland area. They found evidence suggesting concerted support, direction, and control by individuals associated with China’s Vancouver consulate and the United Front Work Department (UFWD) in China.
The watchdog also reported allegations that members of three Chinese-Canadian associations and others used their positions to influence Chinese Canadian electors during the 2021 election in favor of China’s interests. These efforts were reportedly motivated by concerns over Chiu’s actions and statements as well as the Conservative Party’s election platform being perceived as “anti-China” and encouraging discrimination against Chinese Canadians.
The OCCE stated that these messages were amplified through repeated posts on social media platforms, chat groups, as well as through various Chinese-language online outlets such as print media and radio stations throughout Greater Vancouver Area. It highlighted statements from China’s Ambassador to Canada and Vancouver Consul General along with articles published or broadcasted by Beijing-controlled Chinese Canadian media entities preceding this campaign.
According to interviews conducted with Chinese Canadians for this review, these actions invoked widespread fear among electors who believed they could face retributive measures from authorities in China if a Conservative government was elected. This fear included concerns about potential interference with travel arrangements between Canada and China or possible repercussions against family members or business interests within China itself.
Investigators noted one interviewee who stated “everybody understands” the pressure to only speak positively about China. They also mentioned ongoing hearings at a public inquiry into foreign interference which will continue until October 16th.
