Indian-origin Ruby Dhalla has officially entered the race for the leadership of Canada’s Liberal Party, positioning herself as a contender for the country’s next prime minister. With a diverse background spanning politics, medicine, and acting, Dhalla aims to inject fresh energy and perspective into Canada’s political landscape.

Early Life

Born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, to Punjabi immigrants, Dhalla’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Before her political career, she worked as a chiropractor and also dabbled in acting. She starred in a Bollywood-inspired film, Kyon? Kis Liye?, and was the runner-up in the 1993 Miss India-Canada pageant.

Dhalla first caught media attention at the age of 10 when she wrote a letter to then-Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, expressing her thoughts on Operation Blue Star and the unrest in Punjab. Gandhi personally responded to the young Dhalla and referenced her letter in a press conference.

Dhalla served as a Member of Parliament (MP) for the Brampton-Springdale constituency from 2004 to 2011. She made history as the first Indian-origin woman to be elected to Canada’s Parliament for three consecutive terms. Her campaign team highlights her ambition to make history once again, this time as Canada’s first woman of colour to serve as prime minister.

Stand on Immigration

Dhalla’s leadership platform includes a controversial stance on illegal immigration. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), she declared, “As Prime Minister, I will deport illegal immigrants and clamp down on human traffickers. That’s my promise to you.” This statement has sparked both support and criticism, placing immigration reform at the centre of her campaign.

In a campaign video, Dhalla expressed her excitement about the journey ahead, stating, “We are on the verge of creating history by electing the first woman of color as the leader of the Liberal Party and the next prime minister of Canada.” She emphasized her commitment to engaging new demographics and returning the party to its members.

Outlining her vision, Dhalla said, “As leader, I will bring the party back into the hands of the members and return it to the centre with practical solutions to the challenges that Canadians are facing.” Her campaign aims to attract voters seeking change and a fresh approach to governance.

Tough Competition

Dhalla’s journey to leadership will not be easy. She faces formidable opponents, including Mark Carney, former governor of the Bank of Canada and Bank of England, and Chrystia Freeland, former minister of finance and deputy prime minister. The race will culminate in the announcement of the next Liberal Party leader and potentially Canada’s next prime minister on March 9.

Dhalla’s campaign has also focused on her long-standing ties to the Liberal Party and her passion for Canada. “I look forward to standing up for Canadians and fighting for Canada,” she said in her campaign release.

If successful, Ruby Dhalla will not only redefine leadership in Canada but also inspire a new generation of diverse voices in politics. As the leadership race unfolds, all eyes will be on Dhalla and her ability to navigate the challenges ahead.