Quebec’s anti-corruption police have initiated a criminal probe into alleged misconduct by the Quebec Liberals. The investigation follows accusations of using National Assembly funds for partisan purposes and the recent leadership race that culminated in the selection of Pablo Rodriguez as the leader.
A spokesperson for the anti-corruption unit known as UPAC, Mathieu Galarneau, confirmed the launch of the investigation while refraining from disclosing specific motives. Galarneau emphasized the need for confidentiality to safeguard the integrity of the investigation and uphold the rights of those implicated.
Responding to the news, Rodriguez assured full cooperation with UPAC in a statement, underscoring the importance of uncovering the truth and taking decisive action if any illegal activities are revealed.
Recent controversies have intensified, with the emergence of alleged text messages reported by the Journal de Montréal, hinting at cash incentives for individuals supporting Rodriguez during the leadership contest. Rodriguez expressed surprise at the content of the text messages, indicating that an investigation led by retired judge Jacques R. Fournier has been commissioned to examine the allegations, with a report expected by January 2026.
In a separate development, MNA Sona Lakhoyan Olivier was suspended from the Liberal caucus pending an inquiry led by the National Assembly’s ethics commissioner, following a request from Rodriguez. Allegations involving Olivier and CAQ MNA Alice Abou-Khalil were highlighted by a French-language radio station in connection with the ongoing investigation.
The Quebec Liberals issued a statement acknowledging that the investigation focuses on the alleged misuse of resources at the Chomedey constituency office during the party’s recent leadership race.
Furthermore, Saint-Laurent MNA Marwah Rizqy was ousted from the Quebec Liberal caucus, with Rodriguez attributing her removal to individual actions and a perceived disregard for teamwork following the dismissal of her chief of staff, Geneviève Hinse, who had prior professional ties with Rodriguez during his tenure as an MP in Ottawa.
