Liberal Leader Carney Defends Candidate Amid Controversial 'Bounty' Remarks

Liberal Leader Mark Carney has decided to retain Paul Chiang, the Liberal candidate for Markham-Unionville, despite public outcry over Chiang's remarks suggesting that attendees at a Chinese-language media event could claim a bounty for turning in Conservative candidate Joe Tay to the Chinese consulate. Carney described Chiang's comments as a 'terrible lapse in judgment' but deemed the situation a 'teachable moment' about human rights. Twelve Hongkonger-Canadian organizations have called for Chiang's removal, arguing his comments support foreign interference and threaten Tay's safety. Tay, who has been vocal about his concerns for his safety following Chiang's remarks, criticized them as 'insidious' and reflective of Chinese Communist Party tactics to intimidate critics abroad. Chiang later apologized for his comments, acknowledging their severity and expressing disappointment in himself. The controversy highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding China's influence in Canada and the implications for political candidates involved in pro-democracy movements.