Following Justin Trudeau’s resignation, the race for Canada’s next prime minister has heated up. Pierre Poilievre, leader of the Conservative Party, has emerged as the frontrunner, according to the crypto-based prediction platform Polymarket. Poilievre, 45, is not only seen as a potential successor but also a polarizing figure, as highlighted by his recent Deepavali event controversy.
Who is Pierre Poilievre?
Pierre Poilievre has been a central figure in Canadian politics since 2004, representing Carleton, Ontario, in Parliament. Since becoming the leader of the Conservative Party and the official opposition in 2022, he has championed free-market policies and self-reliance. Previously, he served as minister for democratic reform (2013-2015) and minister of employment and social development in 2015 under former Prime Minister Stephen Harper.
Born in Calgary, Alberta, Poilievre graduated with a degree in International Relations from the University of Calgary. He currently resides with his wife, Anaida, and their two children, Valentina and Cruz.
Deepavali controversy
Poilievre’s handling of Deepavali celebrations has drawn significant criticism. In October 2024, he canceled a long-standing Diwali event planned for Parliament Hill amidst heightened diplomatic tensions with India. The Overseas Friends of India Canada (OFIC), the event’s organizer, stated that no explanation was provided for the decision. This marked the first cancellation of the event in its 23-year history, disappointing many Indo-Canadian organizations.
The ruling Liberal Party stepped in to host a Deepavali celebration led by MP Chandra Arya on November 16, while Conservative MP Todd Doherty hosted a scaled-down event on a different date and location. Poilievre’s office later clarified that the event wasn’t canceled but “modified,” with Doherty taking over hosting duties. The move, however, failed to ease concerns within Canada’s Hindu community, who viewed the change as a message of exclusion.
Impact on India-Canada relations
Poilievre’s actions come at a time when Canada’s relationship with India is strained, largely due to the Trudeau administration’s alleged pandering to pro-Khalistani groups. Poilievre’s cancellation of the Deepavali event raised questions about whether a future Conservative government would truly take a different stance on India-Canada ties.
A former High Commissioner to Canada suggested that Poilievre might be attempting to balance narratives pushed by both pro-Hindu and pro-Khalistani groups ahead of the 2025 elections. Poilievre has yet to outline a clear vision for addressing the diplomatic tensions with India.
Poised for leadership
Despite the controversy, Poilievre remains a strong candidate for Canada’s top job. Known for his sharp rhetoric and grassroots appeal, he has positioned himself as a champion of change. Whether he can successfully navigate the complexities of domestic multicultural politics and international diplomacy remains to be seen.
As Canada looks ahead to its next chapter, Poilievre’s leadership will undoubtedly be scrutinized for its ability to unite the country while addressing its growing challenges on the global stage.
