Reality check: The “have we learned nothing from prorogation?” edition

The Harper Conservatives have a message for all those Canadians hoping for a change in the government’s recent arrogant and autocratic behavior: get ready for more.

The latest example of running rough shod over democracy comes courtesy of Foreign Affairs Minister Lawrence Cannon who announced yesterday—at 10:46pm no less— that Gérard Latulippe will be the next president of the troubled Rights and Democracy (International Centre for Human Rights and Democratic Development).

Last Month, Mr. Cannon wrote all three opposition leaders to “consult” them on Mr. Latulippe’s potential appointment. All three opposition parties unanimously rejected his nomination and expressed concerns about widening and unresolved management irregularities at Rights and Democracy.

Stephen Harper was elected on a pledge to do politics differently than the Liberals did for 13 years. Cabinet would be more accountable, partisan appointments would end with the creation of a Public Appointments Commission; the government was going to listen more.

As Mr. Latulippe’s appointment shows, such promises are meant for campaign platforms, not for implementation.

Coming a day before the House of Commons reconvenes after Mr. Harper unilaterally padlocked Parliament last January, it is clear the government has no intention of heeding the message sent by the hundreds of thousands of Canadians who demanded better of their politicians.

Welcome back to Parliament, Mr. Harper.