The Canadian government’s decision to halt a motion granting honorary citizenship to jailed Hong Kong activist Jimmy Lai has drawn sharp criticism from human rights groups. Liberal MP Judy Sgro had been spearheading efforts to table a unanimous consent motion in parliament, aiming to bestow the honour on Lai before the G7 summit in Alberta. However, Government House Leader Steven MacKinnon intervened on June 11th, instructing Sgro not to proceed.

The motion, requiring unanimous consent for adoption without debate, was blocked. This effectively prevents Lai, who has endured over four years of solitary confinement for his outspoken criticism of the Chinese regime, from receiving the honorary Canadian citizenship. Human rights organizations have expressed their deep disappointment with Ottawa’s decision, highlighting the implications for freedom of speech and international human rights advocacy.

The move underscores the complexities of balancing diplomatic relations with a commitment to human rights. The exact reasons behind the government’s decision remain unclear, sparking further debate and concern amongst activists and observers.