Liberal Member of Parliament Shaun Chen faced allegations online after announcing his resignation from the House of Commons, with claims suggesting he had voted on legislation while in China earlier in the year. The accusations were fueled by right-wing influencers and a few current and former Conservative MPs. The basis of the claims lies in videos posted on WeChat, a popular Chinese social media platform, showing Chen’s visit to China and the date stamps on these videos.
According to independent journalist Andy Lee, one of the posts pointed out that Chen was seen enjoying ice cream in a video on March 25th in China, the same day he supposedly voted electronically six times in the House of Commons. Concerns were raised about the potential breach of national security if Chen had indeed voted from China.
Conservative MP John Barlow echoed these concerns, emphasizing the gravity of the situation beyond just a travel incident. Barlow referenced the House of Commons standing orders, which explicitly prohibit MPs from voting while outside of Canada. The focus of the allegations was Chen’s alleged vote on the government’s contentious hate crime legislation, Bill C-9, on March 25 while he was in China.
While it was suggested that the WeChat videos might have been edited and posted after the trip, the possibility of Chen voting from China was still questioned. The rules governing House procedures stipulate that MPs cannot participate in House votes while abroad. The House of Commons standing orders specify that electronic votes must originate within Canada, and a member’s identity must be visually confirmed using facial recognition technology.
In response to the allegations, a spokesperson for House Speaker Francis Scarpaleggia emphasized the implementation of technical controls and validation processes to ensure MPs are physically present in Canada when voting. Chen’s office clarified that he was in China from March 14 to March 22, and he returned to Canada for the House of Commons session on March 23 after the spring recess.
Chen’s office provided evidence of his travel itinerary, including a boarding pass showing his return to Toronto from Taipei on March 22. Additionally, visa stamps in Chen’s passport confirmed his entry and exit dates from China. Chen’s office asserted that he did not vote from outside Canada and cited health issues as the reason for his resignation, stating that his limited travel to Ottawa prompted the decision to step down.
Critics, including Andy Lee, raised concerns about Chen’s ability to travel to China despite health issues that allegedly hindered his travel to Ottawa. The trip to China was organized by the Hakka Canadian Association, chaired by Markham Coun. Joe Li, aiming to foster relationships within the Hakka ethnic group in Canada.
Email correspondence between Chen and House of Commons IT staff regarding cybersecurity measures during his trip was also shared. The Office of Canada’s Conflict of Interest and Ethics Commissioner disclosed details of Chen’s trip, sponsored by the Hakka Canadian Association for seven nights in hotels from March 14 to 22.
