Sarmad Laith: The Independent Voice in Ottawa South’s 2019 Election In the 2019 federal election, Ottawa South saw a familiar political landscape dominated by the Liberal Party. However, among the candidates vying for a seat in Parliament, Sarmad Laith stood out as an Independent candidate, challenging the status quo and offering voters an alternative to mainstream party politics2. A Bold Independent Run Unlike candidates backed by major political parties, Laith entered the race without the financial and organizational support that comes with party affiliation. Running as an Independent, he sought to bring fresh perspectives to Ottawa South, a riding that had consistently voted Liberal since its creation in 1988. His campaign focused on grassroots engagement, aiming to connect directly with voters and address local concerns without party constraints. The Political Landscape Ottawa South had long been considered a Liberal stronghold, with incumbent David McGuinty securing victories in previous elections by significant margins. In 2015, McGuinty won with about 60% of the vote, making the 2019 race an uphill battle for any challenger. Laith faced competition from candidates representing the Conservative Party, NDP, Green Party, People’s Party, and Communist Party, each bringing their own platforms to the table. Challenges and Impact Running as an Independent in a riding dominated by party politics posed significant challenges. Without the backing of a major party, Laith had to rely on community support and direct voter outreach to make his case. While he did not secure a victory, his candidacy highlighted the importance of diverse political voices and the need for independent perspectives in Canadian elections. Final Thoughts Sarmad Laith’s 2019 campaign in Ottawa South was a testament to the power of independent candidates in shaping political discourse. While the riding ultimately remained in Liberal hands, his presence in the race underscored the value of alternative viewpoints and the role of grassroots movements in Canadian democracy.