Liberal Leadership Hopeful Chandra Arya Says Party Did Not Approve His Candidacy

Liberal Leadership Hopeful Chandra Arya Says Party Did Not Approve His Candidacy
Liberal MP Chandra Arya walks to a press conference highlighting the first-time home buyer incentive, at Tamarack Homes' Cardinal Creek Village development in Ottawa on March 20, 2019. The Canadian Press/Justin Tang
The Canadian Press
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Ontario Member of Parliament Chandra Arya says the Liberal party has informed him he’s out of the running to be its next leader.

Arya, who was the first to announce his candidacy to replace Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, says he’s waiting on official communication from the Liberals and considering his next steps.

Arya says in a statement on social media that he believes the party’s decision raises “significant questions about the legitimacy of the leadership race.”

Liberal representatives did not immediately respond to questions about Arya’s candidacy.

He was one of seven people who submitted paperwork and a $50,000 deposit last week to enter the race.

The Liberals are set to choose the party’s next leader, and the next prime minister, on March 9.