OTTAWA — On Wednesday, Liberal MPs convened behind closed doors to advocate for significant changes to the party's leadership election rules, emphasizing that only Canadian citizens and permanent residents should be eligible to vote. This move comes in the wake of growing concerns over potential foreign interference in the democratic process, particularly from nations like China and India.

The discussion focuses on the impending leadership race to select a successor for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who recently announced his resignation. The Prime Minister has suspended Parliament until March 24, allowing the party to swiftly elect a new leader—a decision that some Liberal MPs believe is crucial for ensuring the new leader has adequate time to prepare before the House of Commons reconvenes.

As the party gears up for this crucial contest, the national board is scheduled to meet to establish the rules for the leadership race, which will include deadlines for party membership, candidate entry fees, and a timeline for potential campaigns. The urgency of the situation is compounded by warnings from opposition parties signaling their intent to introduce a no-confidence motion aimed at the minority Liberal government, which could force the new leader into the spotlight just days after being appointed.

During the six-hour caucus meeting, many participants expressed the belief that the integrity of the leadership race could be compromised unless changes are made to limit voting to long-term residents. Currently, party membership is open to anyone over 14, allowing temporary residents and international students to participate, raising serious concerns about foreign influence.

Taleeb Noormohamed, a representative for Vancouver Granville, articulated the pervasive worries regarding foreign interference, stating, “Concerns related to membership from non-citizens and non-permanent residents were absolutely something that came up.”

Liberal Party president Sachit Mehra attended the caucus meeting but did not answer questions from reporters afterward. Meanwhile, the party’s national director, Azam Ishmael, was also present, indicating the leadership’s awareness of the concerns raised by its MPs.

The Liberal Party is now the first federal party to grapple with the ramifications of alleged foreign meddling in Canadian elections, which has led the government to initiate a public inquiry into such interference. This inquiry is crucial, especially since Justice Marie-Josee Hogue is expected to release her final report by January 31, coinciding with the party’s leadership race.

Party spokesperson Parker Lund emphasized that protecting the democratic process is a primary concern. He countered criticisms of the current membership rules, arguing that the Liberal Party has created a more inclusive environment that engages young people and future voters.

As discussions continue, some MPs, like Toronto's Marco Mendicino, reiterated the necessity for a transparent and efficient process to maintain the election's integrity. With voices across the caucus calling for assured reforms, the question remains whether the Liberal Party can adapt in time to safeguard its leadership election from any external influences and reflect the values of its constituents.