NEWS RELEASE
January 30, 2025
Richmond, BC – Former Member of Parliament, Wai Young calls for healing and unity in Richmond after divisive Kenny Chiu caused a giant community rift by blaming voters of Chinese descent for his 2021 election loss by 6,000 votes.
“I am so pleased that the findings of this Foreign Interference Report means that Richmond citizens, who have been living under the shadow of suspicion for years, after being cruelly divided by ongoing accusations made by Kenny Chiu, can now begin to heal and come together as equal citizens in Canada again.”
“Kenny Chiu has caused a giant rift in our community, creating suspicion amongst different immigrant groups, leading to some being viewed as ‘second class citizens’. I do not believe in second class citizens in Canada. As citizens, we all have equal rights, equal responsibilities and an equal voice in our democratic country. All citizens have the right to vote for their choice, and this Hogue report clears up the cloud of suspicion hanging over Richmond. It is time for this division – caused by Mr. Chiu – to heal, so the community can be united once again. As Canada is facing a weak economy and threats of US tariffs, it is imperative that we put this dark chapter behind us, so we can all work together, towards restoring a strong Canada for us all,” said Wai Young.
“In addition, as a former Member of Parliament with the Stephen Harper government, I recall when our country was strong, united, and respected around the world. We can and we will rebuild our Country once again, one community at a time.”
After 150 witness testimonies in public and in-camera meetings over 16 months, Judge Hogue’s report, released on 29 January 2025 found no evidence of spies in Parliament nor in Richmond. The report clearly outlines that while there were minor concerns, there was no real foreign interference impact. One of the key findings in the report is that great care should be taken when making public statements, or accusations as public figures or diaspora communities can be put under a cloud of suspicion.
Click here for: Foreign Interference Report
Wai Young states, “For years, Richmond citizens of Chinese descent have been living under a cloud of suspicion, and I believe this Hogue Report vindicates them. I have heard from thousands of Richmond citizens who have lived in anguish since Kenny Chiu divided the community through the numerous interviews and public statements he carelessly gave, all without any evidence, and as recently as several weeks ago. This has led to citizens becoming targets of increased Asian hate and racism. As a community, I call upon each of us to stand against racism and hate, as we come together to heal.”
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Media Inquires can be made by email to: votewaiyoung@gmail.com