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  • Nepean MPP Lisa MacLeod apologizes for social media post many called Islamophobic

Nepean MPP Lisa MacLeod apologizes for social media post many called Islamophobic

The remarks targeted PC candidate Husein Abu-Rayash

Hateful words: Outgoing Nepean MPP Lisa MacLeod has issued an apology on X less than two months after she’s expected to leave office following an almost 20-year career. 

The message of regret came a few days after MacLeod posted a link to the website of Husein Abu-Rayash, along with the comment, “Hey Nepean? If you support Sharia Law … next PC Candidate for Nepean could be…” 

Abu-Rayash has recently announced that he’s running for the Progressive Conservative nomination to replace MacLeod in her riding. For context, Sharia is a body of religious law that is part of the Islamic faith. It's based on the Qu’ran and other religious texts.

In response, Abu-Rayash said it was disappointing that MacLeod “has chosen to interfere in Nepean’s nomination process by spreading defamatory, hateful, and Islamaphobic” rhetoric against him. The policy analyst and entrepreneur demanded an apology and said his lawyer issued a formal libel notice against MacLeod. 

  • “I am a proud father, conservative, Muslim and former reservist who has always sought to contribute to our beautiful country,” he said. “I will not be intimidated or allow anyone to undermine my reputation and integrity.”

The letter written by lawyer Mark Bourrie also noted her comments were an attack on Abu-Rayash’s religion and “a crude and heavy-handed attempt to defame him.”

MacLeod has since deleted the tweets but also engaged in a Twitter debate with Global News journalist Colin D’Mello, who said MacLeod was “not fit for office.” 

Apology issued: MacLeod said that she did not intend to mislead or harm anyone and recognized that her comments were "inappropriate."

  • “I have been on the receiving end of unfair comments myself and should have done better. This experience has reminded me of the importance of thoughtful and accurate communication,” wrote MacLeod. “I deeply respect and congratulate anyone who seeks to serve the public through elected office, as it requires courage, dedication, and a strong commitment to the community.”

MacLeod has frequently been open about her mental health struggles, which include a diagnosis of bipolar disorder.