Denis Coderre’s candidacy for Quebec Liberal Party leadership in limbo

Former Montreal MP and Mayor Denis Coderre speaks at a press conference in Quebec City on Friday, June 21, 2024. Coderre has announced his decision to run for the leadership of the Quebec Liberal Party in the next election. (The Canadian Press/Jacques Boissinot)

Former Montreal mayor Denis Coderre has still not submitted all the documents required to certify his candidacy in the Quebec Liberal party leadership race, according to an anonymous source within the party.

The source, which spoke with The Canadian Press on condition of anonymity because they are not authorized to speak publicly, said the documents in question relate to Coderre’s financial situation as media outlets have reported he owes about $400,000 in provincial and federal taxes.

Coderre went to the QLP office in Quebec City to file for candidacy last month and said that there were no issues with money owed to the two tax agencies.

Last week, Coderre maintained that his paperwork was in order, saying that he provided the party with the documents it had requested. He did not respond to a request for comment Friday.

The committee that authorizes candidates says those trying to join the race can be accepted or rejected within seven days once their documents have been submitted, with the nomination period closing in April and the election of a new leader in June.

On Friday the party’s president said the process is “ongoing” as it relates to Coderre.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Feb. 1, 2025.