Johnston steps down from special rapporteur role on foreign election interference

Embattled former governor general David Johnston has stepped down from his role as special rapporteur on election interference.

Johnston has faced numerous calls to resign, but last week said he intended to stay in the role after a majority vote in the House of Commons called for him to step aside.

Opposition parties were critical of Johnston’s personal ties to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, his decision not to call for a public inquiry into serious allegations of foreign interference in Canada’s last two federal elections, and his previous statements on China.

On Friday, Johnston sent a letter to Trudeau announcing his resignation from the role. In his letter, Johnston said a deep and comprehensive review of foreign interference should remain an urgent priority for Parliament.

He also encouraged the prime minister to appoint a “respected person” to take over the role, and recommended consulting with Opposition parties beforehand to avoid the appearance of partisanship.

— With files from The Canadian Press