Parti Québécois Leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon has expressed his concerns regarding potential interference from the Canadian government in the Quebec provincial election, warning of a “chance that we might be experiencing the most significant federal intervention in our matters and election since 1995.”
St-Pierre Plamondon pointed out that throughout the eight years of the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) government’s reign, the federal government consistently dismissed every request from the province; however, “in recent months, the federal government has been increasing its announcements.”
During a news conference on Friday while campaigning for the Oct. 5 election, St-Pierre Plamondon highlighted instances such as the $11-billion investment in the Davie shipyard, which was announced just days before the campaign kicked off, along with the recent agreement involving Newfoundland and Quebec concerning Churchill Falls.
He also mentioned the announcement made on Wednesday regarding a $4.7-billion investment for constructing train cars in La Pocatière.
The PQ leader further indicated a possible collaboration between CAQ Leader Christine Fréchette’s campaign and Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government regarding the tariff dispute between Canada and the United States as another instance of interference.
“The federal government and the CAQ are working together,” he asserted. “We cannot ignore that the federal government is invested in the outcome of the Quebec election.”
He remarked that the federal Liberal party does not wish to see a sovereigntist government arise, particularly as the PQ is currently leading in the polls. He emphasized that “one must connect the dots” given the federal government’s newfound interest in matters that have been stagnant for many years.
“I am concerned, and I have the right to express that concern,” stated St-Pierre Plamondon.
Fréchette, Carney reject claims
However, the CAQ leader and current premier of the province dismissed these claims.
“Absolutely not,” Fréchette responded firmly when questioned about any potential interference from Ottawa during the campaign. She asserted that the recent announcements are beneficial for Quebec and would not have come to fruition under a Parti Québécois government.
“It is crucial to establish partnerships with the federal government when it benefits Quebec and to assert our position when necessary.”
Coalition Avenir Québec Leader Christine Fréchette addresses inquiries during a campaign event outside a school in Gatineau on Friday, Sept. 4, 2026. (Adrian Wyld/The Canadian Press)
Reiterating a sentiment she has expressed previously, she said, “I don’t work for Ottawa. I don’t work against Ottawa. I work for Quebec.”
The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) released a statement indicating that Canada’s new government “will always be prepared to collaborate with all premiers, regardless of their party affiliation, to strengthen the economy, safeguard our workers and businesses, and enhance affordability of life.”
According to the statement, the federal government does not interfere in provincial elections and will collaborate with Quebec’s government to achieve its objectives, regardless of who prevails on Oct. 5.
While the PQ has called for an investigation by Élections Québec, the province’s Liberal Leader Charles Milliard accused St-Pierre Plamondon of imagining a conspiracy.
“But I don’t believe there is any overarching scheme at play here. Ultimately, no matter how many consultants the CAQ hires, they are not federalists. They are opportunists,” Milliard remarked.
Questioning the group’s involvement
St-Pierre Plamondon also drew attention to alleged connections between the CAQ campaign and Mission Leadership Québec.
This group identifies itself as a non-profit organization aimed at promoting citizen engagement, democratic dialogue, and political awareness. It positions itself as a non-partisan entity advocating for strengthening Quebec’s role within the Canadian federation.
St-Pierre Plamondon characterized the group as a secretive organization co-opted by individuals associated with the federal Liberal Party. As evidence, he referenced a recent Journal de Montréal report indicating that Mission Leadership Québec, which advocates for Canadian unity, was awarded contracts to conduct campaign events for Fréchette’s team.
-
Parti Québécois leader’s donations to federal Liberals in spotlight on Quebec campaign trail
-
‘We are all in the same boat’: PQ leader reaches out to anglophones ahead of election
The PQ has requested Quebec’s chief electoral officer to examine the allegations of interference and unlawful contributions by the group that could benefit the CAQ campaign.
When asked about her party’s association with Mission Leadership Québec, Fréchette dismissed the concerns, stating that she does not scrutinize how each group or company her party interacts with conducts its business.
She noted that the CAQ has a contract with Mission Leadership Québec to organize two town halls, adding, “and that’s it. We don’t go beyond that.”