Toronto(September 4, 2019) – Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center (FSWC) notes recent developments surrounding the Liberal Party’s release of a former imam who was running as a Liberal candidate in Montreal, Hassan Guillet, following antisemitism allegations.

FSWC supports the expulsion of any political party candidate that expresses antisemitic and intolerant views and is continuing to monitor the situation and numerous press conferences that have occurred since Guillet’s release.

“We call on all political parties to thoroughly investigate all candidates before allowing them to run and represent the party,” said FSWC President and CEO Avi Benlolo. “Individuals who have shared hateful views should not hold leadership positions in our communities.”

According to a statement by the Liberal Party of Canada, its decision came after an internal review process that took place for a few weeks.