Our country stands at critical juncture: Canadian MP Chandra Arya calls for bold economic vision in farewell letter

"Today, however, our country stands at a critical juncture. The challenges we face are not only driven by external threats to our economic security--particularly from developments in the United States--but also by deep-rooted structural issues that have been building within Canada for years," Arya said in his final letter, which he shared on X.

Arya reflects on his tenure in Parliament since 2015 and outlines the pressing challenges facing Canada.

"It has been a profound honour and privilege to serve the people of Nepean--and all Canadians--as a Member of Parliament," Arya wrote. He emphasised the dedication and integrity with which he has represented his community, noting the political and personal challenges faced along the way. Arya's message also conveyed pride in his work, stating that the values he upheld throughout his service, even when it was difficult, were central to his commitment to the people of Nepean.

https://x.com/AryaCanada/status/1911799128159289603?s=08

Arya's departure comes after he was dropped as the Liberal candidate ahead of the federal election, paving the way for Prime Minister Mark Carney to potentially run in the Nepean riding.

Reflecting on Canada's achievements, Arya noted, "Canada is the greatest country in the world--a nation built by the hard work, resilience, and vision of generations before us." However, he also pointed out that Canada stands at a critical juncture, with deep-rooted structural challenges threatening its future prosperity.

Arya emphasised the need for urgent economic changes, citing issues like lack of pension coverage, falling real wages, and rising wealth inequality.

He highlighted several pressing issues facing the nation, including the lack of workplace pensions for over 13 million working Canadians, which leaves many at risk of retiring into poverty.

He also noted that real wages for 40 per cent of Canadians have been falling behind, with these individuals earning on average 25 per cent less than those in both the top and bottom 20 per cent of income brackets.

Additionally, Arya drew attention to the growing wealth inequality in Canada, as younger generations, in particular, are struggling to afford basic necessities like housing.

In response to these challenges, Arya proposed a bold economic vision inspired by successful post-war development models from Germany, Japan, and South Korea. "To address these challenges, we must adopt a bold and strategic economic vision," he wrote.

His recommendations included measures to channel private capital into critical sectors like manufacturing, new housing, advanced technologies, and infrastructure. He suggested that credit guidance measures for banks be implemented to ensure the private sector invests in these essential areas.

Arya also proposed that Canadian pension plans be mandated to invest at least 40 per cent of their funds within Canada, focusing on new critical projects. He further advocated for citizenship-based taxation, ensuring all Canadians, regardless of where they live, contribute fairly to the country's social infrastructure.

Concluding his letter, Arya urged his constituents and all Canadians to advocate for these ideas with future Members of Parliament and governments. "The choices we make today will shape the prosperity and fairness of our country for generations to come," he said.

As he steps down from his role, Arya's call for a transformative economic agenda serves as a reflection of his dedication to ensuring a fairer and more prosperous Canada for the future.

Arya was dropped as the Liberal candidate after being barred from the party's leadership race, with concerns raised about the process's fairness.