BC Conservatives Oust Candidate Over Racist Social Media Posts

Interim leader of the Conservative Party of British Columbia Lorne Doerkson removed Joachim Agou as the party's candidate for Victoria-Beacon Hill on October 8, 2026. The decision followed the resurfacing of social media posts from 2024 and 2025, which were shared on X by NDP candidate Amna Shah. The posts included racial commentary mocking Pakistan's population and a statement supporting a driver who plowed through a pro-Palestine protest in Switzerland.

Doerkson stated there is "no excuse for this" and declared that Agou would not serve in the party caucus even if elected. BC NDP leader David Eby condemned the posts as a "disgrace" and called for the immediate removal of any candidates who spread hate.

Agou, an engineer and small-business owner, issued apologies on Facebook and Instagram, stating he is "truly sorry" and takes responsibility for his words. However, he rejected accusations of racism, arguing that his comments on the Swiss protest were an emotional reaction to blocked streets rather than a statement on faith or nationality. While acknowledging that the party withdrew its support, Agou announced he will continue his campaign as an independent candidate for the October 24 provincial election, focusing on housing, health care, and the cost of living.