Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre recently criticized the RCMP’s autonomy, labeling the leadership of the national police force as “despicable” and alleging that they shielded the Liberal government and former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Poilievre stated in a YouTube interview that if the RCMP had not concealed Trudeau’s actions, criminal charges would have been pressed against him.
During the discussion with the YouTube channel Northern Perspective, Poilievre asserted that Trudeau violated the law by accepting a complimentary vacation, referencing the 2016 Aga Khan controversy. He also suggested that Trudeau likely committed unlawful acts in the SNC-Lavalin scandal. According to Poilievre, these incidents should have resulted in criminal charges, but the RCMP allegedly covered up the details.
In response to Poilievre’s remarks, RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme defended his team, refuting any claims of political interference. Former RCMP Commissioner Brenda Lucki had explored the possibility of charging Trudeau with fraud following an investigation into his 2016 vacation on the Aga Khan’s private island. However, the RCMP chose not to pursue a criminal probe due to legal nuances, as revealed in internal documents made public in 2022.
The RCMP documents highlighted that if the ethics commissioner had deemed Trudeau in violation of the Criminal Code, she would have been obligated to inform the relevant authorities. This non-disclosure led the RCMP to conclude that the ethics commissioner did not find Trudeau in breach of the law.
Regarding the SNC-Lavalin affair, the RCMP stated that insufficient evidence existed to press charges, despite findings by the ethics commissioner that Trudeau had once again contravened the Conflict of Interest Act. The RCMP emphasized the thoroughness and objectivity of their examination of the matter.
Responding to Poilievre’s allegations, Commissioner Duheme denied any interference and invited Poilievre to meet with the RCMP leadership to address his concerns. The National Police Federation head emphasized the professionalism and integrity of RCMP members, dismissing claims of political meddling within the organization.
While the RCMP is accountable to the government, it is crucial for them to maintain operational independence, especially in investigative matters, to prevent political interference.