June 17, 2025
Parteek Singh Mahal
A former BC Conservative candidate, Honveer Singh Randhawa, asserts he has new evidence of “irregularities” and “misconduct” as he continues to contest the results of the Surrey riding where he was defeated in last fall’s provincial election. Randhawa states he has provided a significant update to the amended petition he filed with the BC Supreme Court.
Randhawa describes this update as “newly obtained evidence and admissions” from Elections BC concerning voting “irregularities” and “misconduct” in Surrey-Guildford. This is the riding where he narrowly lost to the NDP’s Gary Begg by just 22 votes last October.
On Monday, Randhawa filed an amended petition with the BC Supreme Court. This updated filing, which revises the original documents submitted in January, includes allegations of 14 non-resident voters and irregularities surrounding 22 mail-in ballots from a residential care home.
As per the details, the amended petition alleges substantial irregularities and violations of the Election Act, including voter intimidation, undue influence, and unauthorized use of mail-in ballots at a Surrey care facility, Argyll Lodge, affecting vulnerable residents.
Further, it details the votes cast by non-residents improperly registered in the riding. The petition outlines allegations that multiple mail-in ballots were unlawfully requested and cast by staff members at Argyll Lodge without proper supervision by election officials.
“Vulnerable residents of the Lodge, some unable to communicate effectively or requiring translation, were subjected to undue influence and coercion during voting. The votes were cast by individuals who did not reside in the Surrey-Guildford electoral district. Elections BC failed to disclose critical information during and after the judicial recount, obstructing timely investigation into electoral misconduct,” it added.
“These are deeply concerning allegations that go to the heart of electoral integrity and democracy in British Columbia,” stated Sunny Uppal, legal counsel representing Randhawa.
“The irregularities identified necessitate urgent and thorough examination to ensure fairness and public confidence in our electoral processes.” Randhawa added, “Voters in Surrey-Guildford deserve transparency and accountability. This isn’t about politics—it’s about upholding the democratic rights of every voter and ensuring elections are conducted lawfully and transparently.”
The amended petition seeks a declaration that the election of Garry Begg is invalid and that the office should be declared vacant, along with other relief as deemed appropriate by the Court.
It’s important to note that these claims have yet to be heard or proven in court. Elections BC had previously suspended its review of Randhawa’s complaints in January, pending the resolution of this court challenge.
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