Former MP Ruby Dhalla has been disqualified from the Liberal Party of Canada leadership race.
A source told CBC News that a special joint committee voted unanimously on Friday to remove Dhalla for breaching the leadership contest’s rules.
Dhalla faces 12 allegations, including accepting donations from a corporation in the form of payments to campaign staff.
The party also alleges she failed to disclose a non-Canadian citizen’s involvement, which it contends could amount to foreign interference during an election period.
Dhalla responded on social media on Friday, calling the claims “fabricated, fictitious, and fake” and suggesting unnamed individuals were working to remove her “from the debate and the ballot.”
The former MP, who served Brampton–Springdale from 2004 to 2011, can appeal under party rules.
Although Liberal officials have not issued a public statement, insiders say the committee’s decision reflects a commitment to strict adherence to fundraising and transparency guidelines.
It remains unclear whether Dhalla will pursue legal action or attempt to rejoin the race.
Liberal Party members are expected to finalize the remaining field of candidates next week.