In a surprising move late on March 31, Markham-Unionville MP Paul Chiang announced his decision to withdraw from the 2025 federal election, citing the need to avoid distractions during a critical time for the country.
“As the Prime Minister and Team Canada work to stand up to President Trump and protect our economy, I do not want there to be distractions in this critical moment. That’s why I’m standing aside as our 2025 candidate in our community of Markham-Unionville,” Chiang wrote in a statement on X (formerly Twitter).
Chiang, a former York Regional Police officer, had faced increasing pressure to step down following controversial remarks he made regarding his political opponent, Joseph Tay. Tay, who is now the Conservative candidate in Don Valley North, had been the subject of a Hong Kong Police Force warrant for his arrest in December 2024, with a reward of HK$1,000,000 offered for his capture. During a January media event, Chiang reportedly told reporters, “If you can bring him to the Chinese Consulate General in Toronto, you will receive this million-dollar prize.”
The comment sparked widespread backlash. Chiang quickly apologized, calling his words “deplorable and a complete lapse of judgment,” and acknowledged that, as a former police officer, he should have known better. However, the apology did little to quell the growing criticism. Tay, rejecting the apology, demanded that Liberal Leader Mark Carney remove Chiang as a candidate, labeling his comments as “threatening” and “unacceptable.”
Despite the public outcry, Carney initially stood by Chiang, confirming that he would remain the Liberal candidate for the contested riding of Markham-Unionville, while condemning his remarks as “deeply offensive.”
In his withdrawal statement, Chiang expressed gratitude to his family and supporters, reiterating his long-standing commitment to public service. “For over three decades, I have dedicated myself to keeping people safe and upholding our country’s values — and I always will.”
Elections Canada has not yet confirmed any official candidates for Markham-Unionville. The nomination deadline is April 7, and the complete list of confirmed candidates will be published on April 9.
