Liberal Party Disqualifies Chandra Arya from Leadership Race

The three-term MP questions the legitimacy of the process after being barred from contesting for party leadership without an official explanation.

Chandra Arya, MP for Nepean since 2015, announced his disqualification from the Liberal Party leadership race via social media on Sunday, January 26, 2025.
Arya stated that the decision raises concerns about the legitimacy of the leadership race and the next prime minister, though he is awaiting official communication from the party.
The Liberal Party has not publicly explained its decision, but party rules allow disqualification if a candidate is deemed 'manifestly unfit for the office.'
Arya's campaign, launched on January 12, proposed significant shifts, including abolishing the monarchy, scrapping DEI standards, raising the retirement age, and reducing government size.
The leadership race follows Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's announcement of his resignation, with the new leader set to be chosen on March 9, 2025.