Liberal Party blocks Arya's leadership bid, Carney gains more support

Liberal Party has blocked Ontario MP Chandra Arya from running in its leadership race, as former Bank of Canada governor Mark Carney continues to get more high-profile endorsements.

Arya, who was first to announce his intention to succeed Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, learned on Sunday that his candidacy had been rejected.

Liberal Party spokesman Parker Lund said leadership rules allow for disqualification of candidates deemed "manifestly unfit for the office" due to public statements, conduct, or other concerns.

The development comes as Industry Minister François-Philippe Champagne became the latest cabinet minister to endorse Carney during a campaign stop in Quebec.

Speaking at a dairy farm in St-Tite, Quebec, Champagne emphasized their shared economic vision and highlighted the importance of the next Liberal leader speaking French.

Arya had previously drawn criticism for stating he did not speak French and questioning its importance for the role of prime minister. 

His disqualification leaves six contenders in the race, including frontrunners Carney and former finance minister Chrystia Freeland.

The contest has taken on increased significance in Quebec, where the Liberals need to hold some of their seats. 

None of the candidates are native French speakers, though both leading contenders are bilingual. 

Carney has secured support from prominent Quebec Liberals, including Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly and Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault.

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre challenged Carney on Sunday to commit to excluding all former Trudeau cabinet ministers from his potential government. 

Carney responded by emphasizing his focus on economic change, declaring in French that "there will be a change with my government."

Meanwhile, Freeland made her case to francophone voters during an appearance on Radio-Canada's Tout le monde en parle show. 

Freeland continues to receive backing from several cabinet colleagues, including Health Minister Mark Holland.

The leadership race is moving toward key deadlines. 

Prospective voters must register by January 27, while candidates face a February 17 deadline to submit the full $350,000 entry fee. 

Other registered candidates include former Government House leader Karina Gould, MP Jaime Battiste, and former MPs Ruby Dhalla and Frank Baylis. 

The party has ten days to approve their candidacies.

The Liberals will select its new leader on March 9.