Pakistani-Origin Candidate Takes Unique Approach in Canadian Elections

Rana Aslam, a candidate of Pakistani descent, has announced a one-day leave from his government position to participate in the Canadian elections.

Aslam stated that a victory would prompt his resignation, while a defeat would see him return to his job the following day.

Contesting the election in the Hamilton constituency under the Liberal Party of Canada, Aslam has garnered significant backing from party leader Mark Carney, the Canadian prime minister, who has visited Hamilton on two occasions to support his campaign.

Aslam is also employed as a government engineer in Hamilton. He has taken leave following protocol to contest the election. Should he win and become a Member of Parliament, he will resign from his engineering role on April 29. Conversely, if he is unsuccessful, he intends to resume his engineering duties upon the conclusion of his leave on the same date.

Originally from Multan, Aslam relocated to Hamilton in 2003. He became a member of the Liberal Party in 2010 and has since served in several party positions. Balancing family commitments, he also pursued further education in Canada. He is currently campaigning in a relatively disadvantaged and challenging constituency in Hamilton.

In an interview, he noted that the aluminum manufacturing sector in Hamilton has experienced increased hardship due to US President Trump’s tariff policies. He mentioned that tariffs on aluminum imported into the United States had cost $3.5 million in a single month. Therefore, if elected, his focus would be on new construction, road development and maintenance, as well as other civic improvements in his constituency.

He acknowledged that the number of Pakistani-Canadian voters in his constituency is limited. However, he is supported by his Pakistani friends, and other minority groups have also pledged their support.

Reports indicate that Aslam is facing a difficult challenge from the NDP candidate in this constituency. However, the rising popularity of the Liberal Party is strengthening his position.

Aslam has a strong affection for Pakistan and the mangoes of Shujaabad. In contrast to Pakistani politicians who often campaign with large motorcades, he was observed meeting voters in his constituency the day before the election, wearing a volunteer badge and accompanied by a small group of young supporters.