The political landscape in Markham-Unionville was rocked last week as its Member of Parliament, Michael Ma, made a surprise move from the Conservative benches to join the governing Liberals. This dramatic floor crossing, however, has ignited immediate controversy, sparking protests outside his constituency office and raising pointed questions about his perceived alignment with the views of the Chinese government.
Protests Erupt in Markham
On Sunday, December 14, 2025, a small but vocal group of demonstrators gathered outside Michael Ma's office in Markham, just north of Toronto. The protesters marched with signs, some of which labeled the MP a "traitor" to the voters who elected him and a "puppet" of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). The scene underscored the deep frustration among some constituents over his decision to switch parties without seeking a new mandate.
Scrutiny Over China-Related Associations
The defection has cast a spotlight on Ma's past associations and statements, which critics argue suggest a concerning closeness to Beijing's positions. Key points of contention include his previous role as a senior executive with the Hong Kong Hospital Authority, a position he held after the Chinese government tightened its control over Hong Kong's institutions.
Further scrutiny stems from his attendance at an August 2025 dinner celebrating the Chinese Freemasons Society, known as Hongmen. This group has been accused by some analysts of acting as a proxy for the Chinese government. During that event, two speakers, including China's vice-consul in Toronto, promoted Beijing's goal of "reunification" with Taiwan. While Ma's own remarks at the dinner were limited to parliamentary greetings and praise for the organization, his presence at the forum has drawn criticism.
Adding to the controversy is an endorsement Ma received during the April 2025 federal election campaign from a pro-Beijing community leader. Furthermore, former Conservative candidate Joe Tay, who is wanted by Hong Kong authorities for his criticism of the CCP, claims that Ma "casually mentioned" doing IT work for China's Belt and Road Initiative during a pre-election meeting. The National Post has reported it could not independently confirm this account.
Reactions and Calls for Resignation
Gloria Fung, president of the advocacy group Canada-Hong Kong Link, stated she had warned a Conservative organizer earlier in the year to vet Ma carefully due to concerns about his record regarding Beijing. "For him to be the CIO of the (Hong Kong) Hospital Authority, it really shows his alignment with the Chinese government policy toward Hong Kong," Fung charged.
Joe Tay has gone further, arguing that Ma should resign his seat if he is unhappy with the Conservatives and run in a by-election to allow the voters of Markham-Unionville to decide if they want him to represent them as a Liberal MP.
The floor crossing occurred on Thursday, December 11, 2025, with Ma briefly appearing at the Liberal Party caucus Christmas party in Ottawa hours later. The swift and fierce backlash highlights the complex intersection of domestic Canadian politics, diaspora communities, and foreign policy concerns, ensuring this story will continue to generate debate in the days and weeks ahead.
