:strip_icc():format(jpeg)/kly-media-production/medias/4599311/original/074113300_1696476202-download.jpg "First in history, a Canadian Parliament led by blacks")
Illustration of the Canadian flag (AFP/Geoff Robins)
Fergus’ personal biography describes him as a “community activist, long-distance runner, new grandfather and failed musician.”
The Speaker of the Canadian House of Representatives is responsible for leading debates, enforcing DPR regulations, voting on decisions and should not take political sides.
“His first role is to restore the honor of the House,” New Democratic Party leader Jagmeet Singh said in a speech in the House.
His remarks referenced a standing ovation given to a World War II veteran who served in the 14th Waffen-SS Grenadier Division, a volunteer unit composed primarily of ethnic Ukrainians under Nazi command.
Yaroslav Hunka, 98, was sitting in the gallery of Parliament when Rota honored him as a “hero” during Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s visit to Ottawa.
Members of the division in which Hunka served allegedly killed Polish and Jewish civilians, although the unit was not found guilty of any war crimes by a court.
Hunka’s appearance in Parliament on September 22 at Rota’s invitation sparked global condemnation. Rota later said he had no knowledge of the veteran’s ties to the Nazis.
Prime Minister Trudeau apologized last week for the incident, saying it was a “mistake that deeply embarrassed Parliament and Canada.”
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