Calgary MP Deepak Obhrai upset as he faces nomination challenge

Deepak Obhrai
Photo: Facebook

CALGARY MP Deepak Obhrai is mighty upset that former Progressive Conservative MLA Moe Amery is challenging him for the Conservative Party nomination in his riding of Calghary Forest Lawn.

Obhrai went as far as calling it a “conspiracy” on his Facebook.

On December 18, he wrote on his Facebook page: “It has come to my attention that someone is spreading false rumours that I am retiring. I want to make it clear I have no intention of retiring and I will be running in the next election.

“A challenge has been mounted against me by someone whom I have supported in his own political career in the past and whom I have always considered a friend.

“This conspiracy was crafted while I was helping the Conservative Party across Canada, during our outreach effort in the by-election. This challenge came as a complete shock to the party, especially since I have been strong In promoting the party nationally.

“The party has directed me to fight this challenge, therefore I have been given permission by the Party to excuse my duties in Ottawa to fight this ground battle.

“I am calling on all my supporters old and new to join me in this battle to allow me to continue what I have been doing for the last 20 years, helping my constituents, and Canadians across the country.

“If you can help, please contact me directly at deepak@deepakobhrai.com.

“As always, I am deeply gracious for your continued support.”

But then he said he misspoke when he used the word “conspiracy.”

Obhrai was first sworn-in as an MP on June 2, 1997. He has since been re-elected six consecutive times from the ridings of Calgary East and Calgary Forest Lawn.

Tom Kmiec, MP for Calgary Shepard, stated last June in the House of Commons that Obhrai had

“become a cherished parliamentary institution.”

He added: “He has been a tireless advocate of Canadian interests, not just here in Canada but throughout the world. As the former parliamentary secretary to the minister of foreign affairs, he clocked more miles—air miles—than any other member, promoting our country with pride and championing international human rights. In fact, former minister John Baird even named him Canada’s first intergalactic ambassador on Twitter.

“Born in Tanzania, he has proven that anything is possible in Canada, regardless of one’s origins. He is, most important, a devoted husband to his wife Neena, a loving father, and grandfather to Davin and Evasha. From his trademark scarfs to his extensive knowledge of world affairs, I am sure all members will agree with me that the member for Calgary Forest Lawn is the complete “Deepakage.””

Amery will still need the party’s approval before he is allowed to run for the nomination in Obhrai’s riding.