Carney chief of staff’s time in cabinet, stance on Gaza under scrutiny

Both the Conservatives and NDP have expressed their disapproval of prime minister-designate Mark Carney’s decision to appoint former public safety minister Marco Mendicino as chief of staff during the transition period. The NDP criticized Mendicino for his staunch pro-Israel stance, while the Conservatives brought up the controversy that led to his resignation from cabinet.

NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh took to social media to highlight Mendicino’s support for Israel during a ceasefire motion presented in Parliament last year. Singh criticized Mendicino for siding with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, causing pain and hurt to many. On the other hand, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre focused on Mendicino’s past tenure in cabinet, citing his mishandling of public safety and immigration files. Mendicino faced calls for resignation over the transfer of serial killer Paul Bernardo to a medium-security prison, ultimately leading to his resignation in 2023.

Carney addressed Liberal caucus members during a meeting, where he explained that Mendicino’s appointment as chief of staff is temporary. While some Liberal MPs defended Mendicino’s appointment, others expressed concerns about his controversial past and pro-Israel stance. The National Council of Canadian Muslims also criticized Mendicino’s appointment, urging supporters to email Carney about the decision.

Mendicino, who continues to serve as the Liberal MP for the Toronto riding of Eglinton-Lawrence, has been relatively quiet about his new role as chief of staff. Despite the criticism, some Liberal MPs have praised Mendicino’s experience and knowledge of the Canadian government administration.

Carney made a rare public statement regarding the Middle East, calling on Israel to resume supplying electricity to Gaza. Mendicino had previously expressed his disagreement with the federal government’s foreign policy towards Israel and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. As Carney prepares to be sworn in as prime minister, the controversy surrounding Mendicino’s appointment as chief of staff continues to draw attention and criticism from various political factions.