Barrhaven East candidate's campaign sign defaced with racial slur

Barrhaven East councillor candidate Jules Ruhinda reported to police on October 10 that one of his campaign signs had been defaced with a racial slur written in blue marker over the weekend. He released a photo on social media showing the vandalism.

"I did not expect these things to happen when I decided to run," Ruhinda told the Ottawa Citizen. "I thought it would be challenging, but I didn't expect it to go to the level of racism and attacking my posters."

Ruhinda said he remains committed to his campaign despite the incident. "I will not live with fear or intimidation to participate in my democracy. I believe everyone has the right to run for public office without being targeted because of their background. I'll keep doing my campaign with dignity and courage and respect for residents."

Ruhinda emphasized that the vandalism does not reflect his neighbourhood. "It's where I raised my three boys here, and I have chosen it to be my neighbourhood and to contribute to my community," he said.

This is at least the second instance of candidate signs being vandalized with hateful messaging during the current municipal election. On October 7, Kitchissippi ward candidate Subhir Uppal's campaign signs were defaced with swastikas.

Ottawa Police Service reported 14 election campaign-related incidents between September 11 and October 8, including threats against a canvasser, a hate-related email currently under investigation by the hate unit, and complaints about signs obstructing motorists' vision. The service said in a statement: "The Ottawa Police Service is committed to ensuring a safe and respectful municipal election process. Criminal offences such as threats, harassment, hate-based crimes, and damage to election signs will not be tolerated."

To report election-related incidents, call Ottawa Police at 613-236-1222, extension 7300. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or crimestoppers.ca.