Canadian lower House Speaker resigns after hailing former Nazi soldier

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
26 Sep 2023 23:46
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The furor helped tarnish the visit by Zelensky, who thanked Canada for the billions of dollars in aid and weapons it has provided since the conflict with Russia began last year.

The speaker of Canada's House of Commons Anthony Rota delivers a speech following an address by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the House of Commons on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, September 22, 2023 (AP)

Canada's Speaker of the House of Commons for the lower chamber announced on Tuesday his resignation, just a few days after he faced criticism for publicly praising a former Nazi soldier in Parliament. This incident was cited by Russia as a justification for its war in Ukraine.

Canadian House Speaker Anthony Rota acknowledged an error in inviting 98-year-old ex-soldier Yaroslav Hunka to a session honoring Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Rota's public praise of Hunka later revealed to have served in an SS unit during World War Two, led to controversy and his resignation, with Russia calling the incident outrageous.

"That public recognition has caused pain to individuals and communities, including the Jewish community in Canada and around the world ... I accept full responsibility for my actions," said Rota, a member of the ruling Liberal party, adding his resignation would take effect on Wednesday.

The furor helped tarnish the visit by Zelensky, who thanked Canada for the billions of dollars in aid and weapons it has provided since the conflict with Russia began last year.

Foreign Minister Melanie Joly had previously suggested Rota's resignation, while Prime Minister Justin Trudeau urged him to reconsider his decision.

Although opposition parties pointed to alleged shortcomings in Trudeau's Liberal government, Rota asserted sole responsibility for the situation. It's worth noting that Hunka resides in Rota's parliamentary constituency.