By Canadian Press

Liberal candidate Raj Saini drops out of election amid harassment allegations

Sep 4, 2021 | 1:55 PM

KITCHENER, Ont. — A Liberal candidate facing allegations he harassed a female staff member has dropped out of the federal election as the party’s candidate in Kitchener Centre.

Raj Saini had faced complaints that he harassed a former member of his staff, allegations which he firmly denies.

The allegations, reported by CBC, have not been independently verified by the Canadian Press.

Saini says in a statement today he is taking the “painful” decision to withdraw as a candidate for the health and safety of everyone.

He says in the statement that continuing his campaign no longer serves the best interests of his family, staff, campaign team or constituents.

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Saini says he will now focus on fighting allegations he describes as “false” and “defamatory.”

Liberal Leader Justin Trudeau had ruled out any further probe into Saini’s conduct on Friday, saying the existing process for assessing such allegations was strong and rigorous.

The Liberals have come under pressure from the Conservatives and NDP over their decision to allow Saini to seek office for a third time.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 4, 2021.

The Canadian Press