New concerns have emerged regarding Peter Yuen, a federal Liberal candidate for Markham-Unionville, and his connections with the Chinese consulate in Toronto. Questions have arisen about his past actions, including presenting an award to a Chinese consul-general and appearing to salute the Communist flag during a ceremony celebrating the establishment of the People’s Republic of China.
In 2016, Yuen, who was then a superintendent with the Toronto Police Service, attended a ceremony at Queen’s Park alongside several other police officers. This event marked the 67th anniversary of the Chinese Communist regime. A photo from the event, shared on the People’s Republic of China Toronto Consulate’s website, shows Yuen seemingly saluting the Chinese flag during its raising outside the legislature.
Two years earlier, Yuen was photographed at a gathering inside the Chinese consulate in Toronto, where he presented a plaque to the outgoing consul, Fang Li. This gesture was described as a token of appreciation for his support and friendship during his time in office. In the photo, Yuen was surrounded by seven younger officers of the Toronto Police Service, raising questions about their presence at the consulate event.
When asked about his attendance at these events, Yuen provided a general response, expressing pride in his Hong Kong heritage while emphasizing his commitment to Canada. He stated that such events were common for fostering people-to-people ties and highlighted his dedication to building a strong and united Canada.
Yuen’s participation in these events came to light after reports surfaced about his attendance at a military parade in Beijing in 2015, which he attended at the invitation of the Chinese government. He claimed that this trip was approved by his superiors as part of a broader initiative to recognize Canada’s role in World War II.
Critics have voiced their concerns about Yuen’s actions. Cheuk Kwan, co-chairman of the Toronto Association for Democracy in China, stated that while honoring a departing foreign consul is not inherently wrong, it is typically a matter for federal officials, not local police. He expressed discomfort with Yuen’s relationships with the Chinese consulate and the appropriateness of a police officer saluting the flag of a repressive regime.
The Toronto Police Service has not commented on Yuen’s actions or the circumstances surrounding his trip to Beijing. Yuen has not clarified who funded his travel and accommodation for the 2015 parade.
As Yuen campaigns for office, his past associations and actions are under scrutiny, especially given the backdrop of increasing allegations of Chinese interference in Canadian politics. The Markham riding, which has a significant population of Chinese residents, has seen political controversies, including claims of foreign influence and the closing of an alleged Chinese secret police station by the RCMP.
With the political landscape in Canada evolving, Yuen’s candidacy may face challenges as voters consider his ties to the Chinese government and the implications of those connections.