Canadian Party of Quebec

Democracy without division

CaPQ speaks for Quebecers who believe rights are not negotiable, bilingualism is an asset, and public life should be grounded in fairness, dignity, and democratic accountability.

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Who we are

What we stand for

A modern federalist platform rooted in constitutional rights, minority protections, and public institutions that serve every Quebecer.

Minority rights

Protect English-speaking, allophone, visible minority, and Indigenous communities through clear constitutional commitments.

Indigenous rights

Advance reconciliation through respect, partnership, and fair treatment before the law.

Linguistic rights

Defend official language equality and reject coercive language policy.

Religious freedom

Protect civil liberties and individual conscience in public life.

Bilingualism

Treat French and English as shared civic assets and practical tools for opportunity.

National unity

Build a confident Quebec within a united Canada.

Leader and Co-Founder

Joseph Cianflone

A Harvard and Oxford graduate with a record of leadership in global health technology, Joseph Cianflone brings a rights-based, solutions-driven approach to Quebec politics.

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Candidates

Our candidates

Meet the people ready to represent their communities at the National Assembly.

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Showing 6 of 29

Marquette

Alexandre Pendenza

Alexandre Pendenza is the Canadian Party of Quebec's candidate for Marquette. He studied political science and history at McGill and is now completing a Master's in Public Policy and Public Administration at Concordia University. Before his university-level education, he attended Loyola High School and CEGEP John Abbott in Liberal Arts. Alongside his studies, Alexandre also works as a blue collar in Dorval, serving the community and familiarizing himself with the day-to-day concerns of citizens. He was born to immigrant parents from Italy and Portugal, immigrants whose family chose to come to Quebec for a better life. He’s had the privilege of living in both Lachine and Dorval and has come to love both municipalities and the city of Montreal as a whole. Alexandre joined the Canadian Party of Quebec because he believes that the province has all the tools it needs to not only be successful but also become the undisputed leader amongst the Canadian provinces. Quebec has world-class universities, abundant clean energy, a strategic position on continental trade routes, and a workforce whose talent is matched by few jurisdictions on this continent. What it has lacked is a government willing to build on those advantages rather than spending its political capital relitigating questions that were settled decades ago. Alexandre also believes that constitutional rights are not obstacles to good governance but its precondition. A government that must suspend the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to enact its agenda should reconsider the agenda. The routine use of the notwithstanding clause has become a substitute for the harder work of building policy that can withstand scrutiny, and Quebecers have paid for that shortcut in both rights and results. Above all, Alexandre believes politics should be about competence. The people of Marquette are contending with the cost of living, the state of healthcare, aging infrastructure, and public services that too often fall short of what their taxes should buy. These are solvable problems. They have gone unsolved because governments have found identity politics more useful than governance. Alexandre is running to change that, and he is asking the residents of Lachine, Dorval, and the rest of Marquette for the chance to prove that a different kind of politics is possible.

Robert-Baldwin

Paul Henry Danylewich

Paul Henry Danylewich is an experienced entrepreneur, public safety specialist, community leader, and the Canadian Party of Québec candidate for the National Assembly of Québec (MNA) in the electoral district of Robert-Baldwin. Growing up in the Chomedey district of Laval, Quebec, Paul is the son of a police officer. He attended Chomedey Polyvalent High School, graduating with the class of 1985. He pursued extensive higher education in Montreal, earning dual Bachelor of Arts degrees in Education and Sociology from Concordia University, followed by a graduate diploma in Adult Education and Public Administration from Concordia. He later earned a Master of Arts degree in Educational Leadership and Administration from Western New Mexico University. While attending university, Paul developed a deep professional interest in martial arts and personal safety. As the program director of the White Tiger Group he developed a specialized assault prevention system focused on women, teen girls, and high-risk frontline workers. He is the author of Fearless: The Complete Personal Safety Guide for Women, published by the University of Toronto Press, alongside numerous articles on personal security and crime prevention. Recognized as a leading authority on personal safety, Paul's expert advice has been featured across North American media. In Canada, he has appeared nationally on programs like Canada AM, while in the United States, his work has been featured on NBC television's The John Walsh Show. His safety insights and commentary have also been published in major newspapers, including the Montreal Gazette, Toronto Star, and Chicago Tribune. In addition to his security consulting and media background, Paul spent two years working for the Government of Alberta in Edmonton as a Corporate Security Coordinator and Emergency Response Training Advisor for the Ministry of Human Services, developing provincial workplace violence prevention programs. Returning home to Montreal, he transitioned into business ownership as the founder of the commercial and residential landscaping firm Paul Henry Landscaping Beyond his professional background, Paul made national news headlines when CTV News featured his viral ""Fly the Flag"" campaign. As a proud local business owner, he offered free lawn care services throughout the month of May to homeowners displaying the Canadian flag, sparking a nationwide conversation about national pride, unity, and resilience. Deeply committed to grassroots philanthropy, Paul organizes annual community fundraisers—such as ""Big Paul's Summer Country Fest""—to directly support critical regional organizations, including the West Island Mission food bank and local women’s shelters. As the president of the Association of Citizens of Dollard, Paul has been on the front lines of municipal accountability. He served as the organizer of major community demonstrations—including public rallies and protests in Dollard-des-Ormeaux and the surrounding West Island region—demanding immediate action, accountability, and better infrastructure support following severe regional flooding. As the candidate for Robert-Baldwin under the Canadian Party of Québec, Paul leverages his diverse background in public administration, small business management, public safety, and grassroots community advocacy to champion pragmatic governance and the true interests of citizens in the National Assembly.

D'Arcy-McGee

Joyce Stoliar Shanks

Joyce Stoliar Shanks is an empathetic, engaging leader and social entrepreneur with the unique ability to see the interconnectedness in all things. Whether she is rallying communities, advocating for wellness and the environment, or supporting small businesses, she is a catalyst for positive change. She has been guided by service—first to her family, then to her community, and always by a deep commitment to helping people thrive. For more than three decades, Joyce's leadership, collaboration, volunteerism, and innovation have inspired people to work together to succeed. Fluent in both English and French, she has built bridges across communities and sectors, guided by the belief that progress is achieved through respect, dialogue, and a shared commitment to the common good. A graduate of Concordia University's Hospitality Management program, Joyce spent her early career in Banff National Park in the hospitality, corporate tourism, and events industries. She shared her awe of nature and her commitment to environmental stewardship while showcasing Canada's majestic beauty as a certified guide and tourism professional. Later, while raising a young daughter, Joyce's personal health journey led her to become a certified Reflexologist and CranioSacral Therapist. She operated a successful complementary wellness practice from her home for more than a decade. Believing that collaboration creates even greater success, she founded the West Island Complementary Health Alliance (WICHA), bringing complementary health care professionals and sustainable businesses together to strengthen their collective impact while helping each business succeed. Joyce's entrepreneurial spirit and her belief that healthy people and a healthy planet are inseparable inspired her to create eCause Canada Inc., an innovative fundraising company that helped schools and charitable organizations raise tens of thousands of dollars with environmentally responsible products. Her vision was simple yet transformative: support children, families, and community organizations today while helping build a healthier, more sustainable future. As a volunteer and advocate, Joyce served on the regional Board of the Quebec Federation of Home and School, supporting and advocating for families and their rights in public education. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she became the spokesperson for the Maimonides Family Advocacy Committee, lending her voice to residents and their families to ensure they were heard and respected during the most challenging period in Quebec's long-term care history. Reflecting her commitment to environmental protection and her pride in the city and province she loves, Joyce has served on the governing board of Les Amis de la Montagne, as well as the Board of Directors of Café des Amis, Mount Royal's food service organization. Today, Joyce is the General Manager of the Quartier Greene Merchants Association in Westmount, working closely with local businesses, community organizations, and municipal leaders to strengthen neighbourhood economies, foster collaboration, and create a vibrant community where businesses and residents can flourish together. Her lifelong commitment to service, collaboration, and community leadership has led her to seek public office as the candidate for Darcy McGee. She considers it an honour to have the opportunity to serve her community and to continue building bridges through respectful dialogue, collaboration, and principled leadership. Joyce believes the strongest communities are built when people work together with respect and a shared commitment to co-creating a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

LaFontaine

Giovanni Manfredi

Giovanni Manfredi is a Quebec entrepreneur, financial security advisor, and longtime financial-services professional with more than 30 years of experience helping individuals, families, professionals, and business owners plan for their financial futures. Born and raised in Quebec with strong Italian roots, Giovanni has developed a deep appreciation for the cultural diversity that has helped shape both Quebec and Canada. Fluent in French, English, Italian, and Spanish, he believes that the ability to communicate with people in their own language provides more than simply a means of conversation—it creates understanding, builds relationships, and brings communities closer together. Throughout his professional career, Giovanni has worked closely with people from many different backgrounds and walks of life. These experiences have reinforced one of his most fundamental beliefs: every person deserves to be treated fairly, with dignity and respect, regardless of their language, culture, background, or place of origin. Giovanni believes strongly that Quebec can protect its unique identity and French heritage while remaining open, inclusive, respectful of individual rights, and an important part of a strong and united Canada. For him, diversity and bilingualism should be viewed as strengths that create opportunities for Quebecers rather than as reasons to divide them. His philosophy of personal responsibility also extends to health and quality of life. Giovanni is a firm believer in maintaining both a healthy mind and a healthy body. Proper nutrition, regular fitness training, discipline, and continuous personal development are important parts of his daily life. He believes that physical and mental well-being contribute to stronger individuals, stronger families, and ultimately stronger communities. As a businessman and financial professional, Giovanni understands the realities faced by Quebec families and entrepreneurs: the rising cost of living, taxation, building a business, preparing for retirement, protecting a family, and trying to create financial security for the next generation. His decades of working directly with people have given him a practical perspective on how government decisions ultimately affect individuals at the kitchen table, in the workplace, and in their businesses. Giovanni first entered provincial politics as a Canadian Party of Quebec candidate in the October 3, 2022 Quebec general election. His decision to become involved was motivated by a desire to give citizens a stronger voice and to advocate for a Quebec where government respects the rights, freedoms, languages, cultures, and contributions of all its citizens. Now, Giovanni is once again offering himself as a candidate for the Canadian Party of Quebec in the 2026 provincial election. His decision to run again comes from the same conviction that originally brought him into politics: public service should be about people, fairness, opportunity, accountability, and respect. Giovanni believes political leadership should bring people together rather than push them apart. He wants Quebecers—French-speaking, English-speaking, newcomers, established families, young people, seniors, entrepreneurs, and workers—to feel that they have a place in Quebec's future and that their voices matter. He believes strongly in fair treatment and respect for all people, whether they live in Quebec, elsewhere in Canada, or anywhere in the world. While people may have different languages, traditions, beliefs, and opinions, Giovanni believes that our shared humanity should always come first. For Giovanni, seeking public office is not about becoming a career politician. It is about bringing decades of real-world business experience, life experience, cultural understanding, and direct interaction with Quebec families into public service. His vision is straightforward: A confident Quebec. A fair Quebec. A prosperous Quebec. A Quebec that respects its citizens, celebrates its diversity, protects individual freedoms, and takes its rightful place within a strong and united Canada. Giovanni Manfredi is proud to once again stand as a candidate for the Canadian Party of Quebec and to offer his experience, energy, and commitment in service to the people of Quebec.

Verdun

Dr. Rashid Abdur, PhD

Dr. Abdur Rashid, born in 1965, is a professional accountant, entrepreneur, and human rights advocate with extensive experience in finance, business management, and community development. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a strong commitment to professional excellence, leadership, and public service. Dr. Rashid is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Far West Accounting Inc., where he has built a respected practice providing comprehensive accounting, taxation, and financial management services. He is also the Founder and President of 786 Holding Inc., further reflecting his entrepreneurial leadership and business expertise. His educational background is both diverse and multidisciplinary. Dr. Rashid recently pursued a Doctorate in Social and Human Studies, majoring in Human Rights, at Atlantic International University. He also earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA), majoring in Accountancy, from Atlantic International University. In addition, he completed studies in Professional Accounting and Business Management at the London School of Business Administration and obtained a College Degree in Information Technology Management from CDI College in Quebec. Committed to lifelong learning and professional development, Dr. Rashid has also completed a Mini MBA through the International Business Management Institute (IBMI) and holds the designation of Licensed Professional Chartered Manager with the Ordre des administrateurs agréés du Québec (OAAQ). His additional professional credentials include designation as an Accredited Management Accountant (AMA) through the Global Academy of Finance and Management (GAFM), Associate Membership with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants, as well as membership in the Association des MBA du Québec. Dr. Rashid has earned numerous certifications through the U.S. Institute of Diplomacy and Human Rights, highlighting his commitment to international advocacy and human rights education. In 2025, he completed the requirements to become a Certified International Business and Protocol Consultant. He is also certified as a Disability Rights Advocate, Certified Diplomatic Protocol Consultant, Certified Human Rights Consultant, and Certified Business Consultant. In recognition of his contributions to the field, he was named “Best Human Rights Consultant” in 2024 by the U.S. Institute of Diplomacy and Human Rights. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dr. Rashid has actively participated in international forums and advocacy initiatives. He attended the International Summit on Disability Rights 2022 in Istanbul, Türkiye, and the Rebuilding Ukraine Forum 2023 in Bucharest, Romania. He also participated in the 18th, 19th, and 20th International Human Rights Summits held in 2024, 2025, and 2026 at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, underscoring his continued commitment to advancing disability rights, human rights advocacy, and international cooperation. Through his leadership in business, dedication to human rights, and ongoing community engagement, Dr. Rashid continues to make a positive impact in the fields of finance, social advocacy, and community development both locally and internationally.

Brome-Missisquoi

Michelle Julien

With a career in financial services spanning more than three decades, Michelle Julien has been helping individuals and families achieve their financial goals since 1994. Known for her client‑focused approach, she brings extensive experience, professionalism, and a deep commitment to serving diverse communities across Quebec. Born in Toronto to Québécois parents and raised in a family of seven children, she developed a strong appreciation for both of Canada’s official languages and cultures from an early age. Fully bilingual in English and French, she has always viewed the ability to live and work in both languages as a valuable asset that helps build understanding, connection, and opportunity. In 2011, she relocated to Quebec’s Eastern Townships, where she continues to live and work. Her children, who were raised in Toronto, are also fluent in both French and English, reflecting her family’s longstanding commitment to bilingualism. She is married to a lawyer who grew up in the Eastern Townships and whose heritage reflects the rich cultural diversity of Quebec, with Irish and French‑Canadian roots. Throughout her career and community involvement, she has been a passionate advocate for issues that strengthen quality of life for Quebec families. She has a particular interest in women’s health, especially the unique healthcare challenges and opportunities that arise during the second half of life. She believes Quebec’s greatest strength lies in its people and their shared aspirations for affordability, economic stability, environmental stewardship, quality healthcare, and excellent educational opportunities. Her professional experience, combined with her deep ties to both English‑ and French‑speaking communities, has given her a unique perspective on the importance of collaboration, inclusion, and practical solutions that benefit all Quebecers. Michelle’s commitment to community life in the Eastern Townships has been a defining part of her personal and professional journey. For eight years, she served as president and secretary of Soccer Sutton, helping strengthen youth sports programming in the region. She also spent seven years on the board of directors of Parc Sutton (PENS), contributing to the protection and stewardship of one of the area’s most cherished natural environments. She played a role in the founding of d’Arts et de rêves Sutton and the École d’arts Sutton, two organizations that enrich the cultural and artistic life of the community. In 2022, she and her family hosted a Ukrainian family displaced by war and assisted other Ukrainian refugees in settling in the region. Her husband’s family, long rooted in Frelighsburg, was actively involved in the fight to protect Mount Pinacle from development and helped establish one of Quebec’s first land trusts—an example of the environmental leadership that continues to inspire her. Michelle’s son, Theo, has also contributed to community life as head counsellor at the local day camp for several years, working closely with local children and families. For more than 14 years, Michelle has provided financial advice to individuals and families—often at no cost—reflecting her belief that financial literacy and stability are essential pillars of community well‑being. Today, she continues to dedicate her time and expertise to helping others, guided by a commitment to service, integrity, and building a stronger future for the communities she serves.

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press-releaseSep 30, 2026

CaPQ releases fully costed platform

The CaPQ releases its fully costed platform for the 2026 election.

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