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MILTON, Canada: With the political climate heating up ahead of the upcoming elections, Muslim voter organizations across Canada came together to invite candidates from all political parties contesting for Parliament to a debate in Milton and surrounding regions.
The debate featured two candidates from the Liberal Party, two from the New Democratic Party (NDP), and one independent candidate, each sharing their perspectives and addressing various issues that matter to voters. Notably, representatives from the Conservative Party of Canada were absent from the event.
Arranged by the Muslim Advisory Council of Canada, each participant was allowed two minutes to outline their positions and respond to questions. The well-organized event took place in a local school auditorium and included participation from the NDP, led by Sikh politician Jagmeet Singh, whose candidates reiterated their commitment to improving the lives of everyday Canadians.
An independent Muslim candidate emphasized his decision to run without party affiliation, allowing him the freedom to express his views without constraints from political loyalties.
Incumbent Liberal MP Adam described the humanitarian crisis in the Middle East as an act of cruelty during his responses. Christina, another Liberal candidate and lawyer from a different constituency, acknowledged the importance of Pakistani and other Muslim voters in her community.
In a lighthearted moment, Adam also claimed he could happily enjoy spicy Pakistani biryani six days a week. In an interview with Jang/Geo, he highlighted his past efforts to address local issues with the Liberal government, reiterating his fondness for biryani.
A Pakistani-Canadian organizer who managed the timing of the debate explained to Jang/Geo that the aim was to underscore local issues, confront Islamophobia, and advocate for making the Canadian visa application process more accessible for Pakistanis through Islamabad rather than Dubai or Delhi. He noted that the debate successfully brought these concerns to light.
Several Pakistani-Canadian voters at the event expressed their disappointment with the actions of Muslim and Pakistani-heritage MPs elected in previous years. They shared with Jang/Geo that while many candidates emphasize their ties to the Pakistani community during campaign periods, once elected, they often prioritize being representatives for all Canadians, neglecting their commitments to the Pakistani community.
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