Former Liberal justice minister endorses Bloc Québécois’s Alexis Brunelle-Duceppe
Former Liberal justice minister and renowned human rights expert, Irwin Cotler, recently voiced his support for Bloc Québécois candidate Alexis Brunelle-Duceppe in the upcoming election. Despite their differing political affiliations, Cotler emphasized Brunelle-Duceppe’s outstanding contributions as a member of Parliament, especially in advocating for human rights both nationally and internationally.
Cotler, who previously served as justice minister under Paul Martin and currently holds the position of Canada’s special envoy on preserving Holocaust remembrance and combating antisemitism, praised Brunelle-Duceppe’s dedication to working across party lines for the greater good. The incumbent MP, elected in Lac-Saint-Jean in 2019 and re-elected in 2021, has been a strong voice within the Bloc Québécois, particularly in his role as the party’s citizenship and immigration critic before Parliament dissolved in March.
In a social media post, Brunelle-Duceppe expressed gratitude for Cotler’s endorsement, stating that it deeply touched him. The two men share a significant history, notably in November 2024 when the RCMP uncovered an Iranian plot to assassinate Cotler. In response to this threat, Brunelle-Duceppe passionately defended Cotler in the House of Commons, condemning any actions that put individuals at risk due to their beliefs or opinions.
Following the revelation of the assassination plot, Brunelle-Duceppe introduced a motion in Parliament to denounce the death threats against Cotler and acknowledge his tireless efforts in advancing human rights causes. This motion received unanimous support from all MPs, highlighting the bipartisan unity in condemning such threats and expressing solidarity with Cotler.
The support and endorsement from Irwin Cotler underscore the exceptional qualities and unwavering commitment of Alexis Brunelle-Duceppe to upholding human rights and advocating for justice. Their collaboration across political lines serves as a testament to the importance of prioritizing shared values and principles above partisan divides. As the election approaches, Brunelle-Duceppe’s candidacy continues to garner support from a diverse range of individuals, transcending political boundaries in the pursuit of a more just and equitable society.
