As someone who has advised governments about democracy and public accountability both in Canada and internationally, I am disturbed by the latest allegations of corruption during the Liberal nomination race in Vancouver Centre. Bill Tieleman's column adds to the plethora of evidence that this and other Liberal nomination meetings have not been fair or transparent ["Fry Nomination Scrap Has Tempers at a Boil", April 22-29].

As Hedy Fry sits at the epicentre of the Vancouver Centre controversy, I think she should respond to these charges as well as present a program of reforms to ensure they do not again occur. Fry might also want to remind Paul Martin that real democratic reform includes more than just juggling committees in Ottawa.

Canadians have become cynical about our democratic processes for good reason. Our electoral system is antiquated, our ethical oversight is second-rate, and public participation in the policy-making process is nonexistent. Canada used to be a democratic world leader, but now we are a world laughingstock.

Where the Liberals have shown no interest in rectifying these problems, Jack Layton and the rest of our NDP team will continue to work on these critical issues.

Kennedy Stewart
New Democratic Party Candidate
Vancouver Centre