Disturbing Things Behind “Freedom Convoy”

Police leaks, general confusion among police, “dangerous” Quebecers, power struggles in the “freedom” convoy, foreign funding: the commission of inquiry into the state of emergency is halfway through and full of twists and turns. Here is a summary of the sometimes disturbing and surprising revelations of this historic commission. Justin Trudeau and seven of his ministers will testify in the coming weeks.

• Also Read: Protesters from the “Freedom Convoy” condemned their arrest

A very patient judge

Franco-Ontarian judge Paul Roulau chairs the commission. He displays great patience with the organizers of the convoy, whose evidence can stretch and fuel conspiracy theories, but he is undoubtedly anxious to defend the legitimacy of the exercise.

Farfadas, dangerous or not?

Not everyone has the same opinion. To the Ontario Police, no. But for the Ottawa police and the city mayor, yes, according to their testimony. This difference of opinion on this Quebec group against health measures is one of many examples of contradictions and confusions in police surveillance.

Surprised police?

Ottawa police and outgoing police chief Peter Slowey vowed they didn’t expect the convoy to last longer than the weekend. However, the hotel management did not take it seriously despite warning that the rooms were reserved for more days. Ultimately, Ottawa police, provincial police and the RCMP argued that there was no need to invoke emergency legislation to allow the convoy to leave.

The police are leakers

Organizers reportedly benefited from leaks of management details from the RCMP, Ottawa Police Service, Ontario Provincial Police and the Canadian Intelligence Service. However, no solid evidence has been provided regarding these leaks.

US funding

The commission learned that the convoy received about $24 million in donations, including about $5.7 million from the United States. However, much of the loot has been returned to donors, frozen or set aside in the wake of an ongoing lawsuit.

A city upside down

Confusion and anarchy reigned in the Ottawa Police Service and City Council when the convoy formed in late January. Resigned Chief Peter Slowey told a resident called to testify that he was “terrified” during the invasion, which did nothing to reassure her. Mr. Slowey, the federal capital’s first black police chief, is facing “a coup of sorts,” according to one city councilwoman. Ottawa police officials, but also provincial officials, had harsh words for Mr. Slowey’s lack of leadership.

Where is Doug?

Despite offering his support to Justin Trudeau in using emergency legislation, Ontario Premier Doug Ford refused to appear before the Roulau Commission. He also fights in court to stay out of sight.