The Progressive Conservatives in Ontario have decided to host their annual gathering in Toronto this weekend without allowing reporters to attend, a move that has drawn criticism for deviating from political norms and appearing weak.
The party’s communication director stated that the event at the Toronto Congress Centre will be exclusively for party members. This decision came after CBC News made several inquiries to obtain accreditation for the event.
Premier Doug Ford supported the choice, emphasizing that the convention is a party event and not intended for media coverage. The gathering, following the party’s third consecutive majority win under Ford’s leadership, will see hundreds of party delegates from across the province converging to discuss policies and engage with Ford during a fireside chat.
The three-day event, commencing on Friday, revolves around the theme “Protect Ontario,” a central element of the government’s re-election campaign. Coincidentally, the federal Conservative party is holding its annual convention in Calgary over the same weekend, open to media, where Pierre Poilievre will undergo a leadership review.
It is customary for political parties to allow journalists to cover their annual conventions to some extent. The decision by the Ontario PC Party has raised eyebrows, with critics like University of Ottawa political science professor Geneviève Tellier highlighting the departure from democratic norms. NDP strategist Melanie Richer criticized the move for lacking transparency and accountability.
Former Liberal cabinet minister John Milloy also weighed in, suggesting that any internal controversies at the closed-door event are likely to reach the media eventually. He emphasized the importance of parties showcasing their narratives to voters through convention coverage, expressing surprise at the decision to exclude the media.
In the absence of media presence, the party risks missing opportunities to communicate its message effectively and engage with a broader audience. The move has been viewed as a missed chance to demonstrate strength and engage with the public through the press.