Canada Blames China of Meddling in Polls, Latter Hits Back & Accuses Former of Defamation

A Canadian official appointed to investigate allegations that China attempted to subvert the country’s federal elections has abruptly resigned, blaming the highly partisan atmosphere surrounding his work.

David Johnston was appointed in March amid concerns that Justin Trudeau’s government had failed to respond adequately to the threat of foreign interference in the last two elections. But in a letter to the prime minister on Friday, he announced his resignation.

The surprise development follows testimony before MPs this week, in which the former governor general called rumours questioning his objectivity quite simply false. Johnston released his first highly anticipated report in late May.

Ever since his appointment he has faced fierce criticism from opposition parties over allegations of bias.