BC United introduces BC Muslim Association President, Asad Gondal, as a Candidate for Surrey North SURREY,
B.C. (June 9, 2024) – BC United is proud to announce Asad Gondal as its MLA candidate for Surrey North in the upcoming provincial election. Gondal, a seasoned businessman and community leader, brings over 25 years of entrepreneurial success and a deep commitment to serving his community to his candidacy.
As the President of the B.C. Muslim Association, Gondal has been a devoted advocate for unity and community welfare through grassroots initiatives and community-building. His academic background, with a Master’s degree specializing in Agronomy, complements his extensive experience in the business world.
“Asad Gondal’s deep commitment to his community and vision for building a better British Columbia for everyone embodies the values and vision of BC United,” said Kevin Falcon, Leader of the Official Opposition and BC United. “With Asad’s commitment to fixing the cost-of-living crisis created by the NDP and extensive background, I know that he will champion the ideas and policies we need to fix the issues facing the people of British Columbia.”
“I am honoured and humbled to have the opportunity to run for BC United in Surrey North,” said Asad Gondal, BC United MLA candidate for Surrey North. “Our community deserves effective leadership that can tackle the pressing issues we face today. The current NDP government has failed us on multiple fronts, from rising crime rates to a struggling health care system, and the ongoing affordability crisis. It’s time for change – and only BC United has the vision and team capable of delivering.”
Gondal’s candidacy represents a transformative opportunity for Surrey North. His dedication to excellence, community cohesion and multiculturalism will undoubtedly pave the way for a brighter future for the community. As BC United gears up for the upcoming election, the party continues to attract top-tier candidates, all driven by a shared commitment to building a better future for the next generation. By: Adam Wilson
Director of Communications
BC United
NEW – Asad Gondal has been dropped as a BC United candidate in Surrey North.
As leader, I have made a particular effort to fulfill my commitment to make this a party of diversity including successfully recruiting more women, youth and people from diverse backgrounds. It was under that approach that I recruited Asad Gondal to be our candidate for Surrey North.
Prior to Mr. Gondal’s nomination, he shared opinions that are inconsistent with our Party’s views on the situation in Gaza, and inconsistent with our support for B.C.’s LGBTQ+ community. He shared those opinions in correspondence he signed on behalf of the BCMA, while representing his community.
In light of those statements, I spoke with Mr. Gondal today to confirm his willingness to adhere to our Party’s long-standing position on these issues. However, he informed me that he cannot change his values and principles, including disavowing earlier statements made while President of the BCMA.
Given Mr. Gondal’s decision to not adhere by our Party’s position on these policies, I have terminated his candidacy effective immediately.
I accept full responsibility and apologize to anyone who may have been offended.
– Kevin Falcon, Leader of the Official Opposition and BC United.
By: Richard Zussman @richardzussman
Today has been a very difficult day, filled with many emotions: Asad Gondal
Asalamualaykum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatu,
I pray this message finds you all in good health and Islamic spirit. Following yesterday’s message I wanted to give an update to the community and my statement regarding what has happened.
The past few days have been profoundly challenging for my family and me. Being marginalized and ridiculed for my beliefs is something I never anticipated. I embarked on this journey with the purest of intentions, yet I have found myself reduced to a caricature of my faith and values. Today, I want to share with my community the truth behind the termination of my candidacy with BC United.
My candidacy for BC United has been terminated by the party. This decision, however painful, is all by Allah’s will. We plan, and then Allah plans, and surely He is the best of Planners. There must be Khair in this decision, and I am content with whatever my Lord ordains.
The party demanded that I retract my previous statements condemning the cruelty and genocide in Gaza. I refused, standing firm in my conviction that speaking out against injustice is a moral imperative.
They also pressured me to change my views on the LGBTQ community. My stance was never about hate or discrimination; it was rooted in a concern for our children. The SOGI curriculum being introduced in elementary schools without parental consent was a policy our community opposed. I stood against this policy of parental exclusion, reflecting the concerns of many parents who believe in the importance of family involvement in education.
I will never compromise my core values for anyone, especially not for political expediency. My principles and my Islamic beliefs are not negotiable.
I want to extend my deepest gratitude to everyone who has supported me, especially during these trying times. Your solidarity has been a beacon of hope and strength.
I am particularly grateful to the brothers and sisters from the Punjabi (Sikh), Afghan, Indian, Bengali, and Caucasian communities. Your unwavering support and presence have meant more to me than words can express. You stood by me when I needed it most, and for that, I pray Allah blesses you abundantly.
We live in perilous times, where those who preach inclusivity often practice exclusion and discrimination. It is imperative that we remain steadfast in our principles and continue to advocate for justice and equity.
Muhammad Asad Gondal
