Conservatives’ attempt to disqualify votes unacceptable: NDP

Ottawa –Reports from the University of Guelph that a Conservative operative tried to grab a ballot box are extremely concerning and warrant a closer look by Elections Canada, says New Democrat campaign spokesperson Kathleen Monk.

“These are serious allegations that warrant an immediate investigation,” said Monk. “Sadly, it’s not surprising given the Harper Conservatives’ complete disrespect for young people, democracy and accountability.”

The Guelph Mercury reported that students witnessed Michael Sona, Communications Director for Conservative candidate Marty Burke, “attempted to put a stop to voting at the special ballot held Wednesday.”

Brenna Anstett, a student who was voting at the time, said:

“He tried to grab for the ballot box. I’m not sure he got his hand on the box, but he definitely grabbed for it.”
– Guelph Mercury, Apr. 14, 2011

Reports indicate that Conservatives have also written to Elections Canada requesting that the University of Guelph votes be voided. Monk said these Conservative tactics are unacceptable.

“This is an outrageous attempt by the Harper Conservatives to silence young voters and lower turnout,” said Monk.

Monk noted similar tactics by Liberals in 2006 when they quashed a special ballot initiative aimed at encouraging youth voter turnout at the University of Toronto (Globe and Mail, Jan. 20, 2006).

“These Conservatives appear to be picking up where the Liberals left off,” said Monk.