Canadian Election is all about one man

I came to Canada 30 years ago as a young immigrant from Malaysia. I consider myself extremely fortunate to have the opportunity to establish my career and able to live a reasonably comfortable life in Canada. Regardless of my background, I am first and forth most, a Canadian. This is the country that I've come to love and where I call home. Over the years, I've voted Liberals and I've voted Progressive Conservatives in federal and provincial elections. My vote is generally influenced by the leader of the party, followed by the party's platform. Whether they like to admit or not, I believe that majority of Canadians are either "small c" conservatives or "small l" liberal.

For me, this election is all about one man, and who else but Stephen Harper. As former president of the National Citizens Coalition, Harper is the most right wing Canadian prime minister we have ever seen. Until Stephen Harper emerged as a political leader, I have never felt so strongly against someone who wants to lead our country down a path that I believe majority of Canadians do not want. Mr. Harper simply wants a majority government, the sole reason for this unnecessary election. We have a government that is essentially a one-man show. Mr. Harper's approval rating speaks more about the real or perceived weakness of the opposition leaders than about him. Given the choices available, I can see why the Conservatives are leading the polls. I'm actually fine with Stephen Harper being the Prime Minister. I just hope he doesn't get his majority. This is not about "fear mongering". There is nothing hidden about Stephen Harper's agenda. His views are well documented, and I see no reason to repeat them. Mr. Harper's views represent a small minority of Canadians. I do not share his views and I believe that majority of Canadians don't either. It's not the Conservative Party that I dislike, it's just Stephen Harper's views that I have a problem with. In previous federal elections, I've voted for Brian Mulroney (twice), Kim Campbell and Jean Charest. But I can never ever vote for Stephen Harper. This is the wrong man to lead this country down the path that will fundamentally change what Canada is all about: compassionate, culturally diversified, and a harmonized society.

Just last week I was thinking: If Harper gets his majority, it will be a sad day for Canada and a very sad day for me. You can count me among 60% or more who didn't vote Conservatives.

Now with the polls showing Conservatives on a downward slide, I'm hopeful that before they cast their votes on October 14, 2008, Canadians will realize Stephen Harper being who he is. Perhaps there's hope for Canada after all.

Posted by Ba on Wednesday 08 October 2008 - 23:30:03
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