Liberal MP Shaun Chen’s announcement of his resignation from the House of Commons has sparked online accusations of voting on legislation while he was in China earlier this year. The allegations, circulated by various right-wing influencers and a few current and former Conservative MPs, are based on videos shared on WeChat showing Chen in China on specific dates.
According to independent journalist Andy Lee, a post highlighted that Chen was seen enjoying ice cream in a video from March 25th in China, the same day he allegedly voted six times electronically in the House of Commons. Concerns were raised about potential breaches of national security if Chen indeed voted while in China.
Conservative MP John Barlow echoed these concerns, emphasizing the gravity of the situation. Barlow referred to House of Commons standing orders that prohibit MPs from voting outside of Canada. Many posts insinuated that Chen participated in voting on Bill C-9, the government’s contentious hate crime legislation, while in China.
Lee later acknowledged the possibility of the WeChat videos being altered and posted post-trip but maintained that questioning Chen’s voting location was reasonable. However, Chen’s office clarified that he was in China from March 14 to March 22, returning to Canada for parliamentary duties on March 23.
The Office of the House Speaker emphasized the stringent measures in place to ensure MPs are physically present in Canada when casting votes, including visual confirmation of identity and facial recognition technology. Chen’s office provided evidence of his travel itinerary and emphasized that he did not vote from outside Canada.
Chen cited health issues stemming from a past car accident as a reason for his resignation, which is set to take effect next month. Questions were raised about his ability to travel to China despite concerns about traveling to Ottawa due to health reasons.
The trip to China was organized by the Hakka Canadian Association, chaired by Markham Coun. Joe Li, with aims to foster relationships among the Hakka ethnic community in Canada. Emails between Chen and House of Commons IT staff confirmed the high cybersecurity risk assessment of his travel arrangements.
Public disclosures from the Office of Canada’s Conflict of Interest and Ethics Commissioner detailed the trip’s itinerary and sponsorship by the Hakka Canadian Association. The trip, spanning from March 14 to 22, included accommodations for seven nights.