Overview
- The Leadership Vote Committee said there was credible evidence of harassment, intimidation and physical confrontation of members, staff and volunteers, including following people to private vehicles and accommodations.
- The committee’s rationale also cited comments it described as consistent with antisemitic rhetoric, use of the phrase “Holocaust industry,” echoes of Russian state propaganda on Ukraine, sympathy for Syria’s Assad, and allegations of genocide denialism.
- An independent Review Committee upheld the decision after Engler requested a review, according to NDP national director Lucy Watson.
- Engler denies the claims, says he has repeatedly condemned Russia’s invasion and antisemitism, argues members should decide his eligibility, and says he has raised roughly $100,000 while planning to continue touring and to refund donors upon request.
- The party also questioned his commitment to the NDP after a social post referencing a Green Party run that Engler says was an impersonation, as he pursues an appeal with a criminal harassment verdict due in January and a new leader to be chosen March 29 in Winnipeg.