BC United Leader Kevin Falcon on Tuesday announced that he has dropped Asad Gondal as the party’s Surrey North candidate because of his opinions that are inconsistent with the “party’s views on the situation in Gaza” and its “support for B.C.’s LGBTQ+ community.”
Falcon said in a statement that Gondal shared those opinions prior to his nomination in correspondence that he signed on behalf of the B.C. Muslim Association (BCMA) while representing his community.
Falcon said: “In light of these statements, I spoke with Mr. Gondal today to confirm his willingness to adhere to our Party’s long-standing position on these issues. However, he informed me that he cannot change his values and principles, including disavowing earlier statements made while President of the BCMA.”
He added: “Given Mr. Gondal’s decision to not adhere by our Party’s position on these policies, I have terminated his candidacy effective immediately.”
Earlier in the day, Caroline Elliott, BC United candidate for West Vancouver-Capilano, had said in a statement that she was appalled that Gondal had referred “to Israel’s defence of its people as ‘genocide,’ less than two weeks after more than 1000 innocent Israeli civilians were brutally massacred in their own homes.”
She added that she was appalled to see Gondal advise “those who struggle with same sex attractions” not to act on their “involuntary urges” and to “repent” if they “falter.””
Elliott said: “While I have long defended free speech — and even as I continue to vigorously defend it — there is a role for political parties to select candidates based on the degree to which they align with the party’s principles.”
She condemned Gondal’s remarks and asked him to retract his comments and apologize.
“If he is unwilling to do so, I am calling on BC United to remove him as a candidate.”
Gondal’s appointment as a candidate was announced just last Sunday.
The BC United press release stated: “Gondal, a seasoned businessman and community leader, brings over 25 years of entrepreneurial success and a deep commitment to serving his community to his candidacy.
“As the President of the B.C. Muslim Association, Gondal has been a devoted advocate for unity and community welfare through grassroots initiatives and community-building. His academic background, with a Master’s degree specializing in Agronomy, complements his extensive experience in the business world.”
