MPP Michael Mantha removed from the NDP caucus due to allegations of workplace misconduct
Posted August 15, 2023 4:37 pm.
Last Updated August 15, 2023 5:06 pm.
Ontario’s New Democratic Party (NDP) says Michael Mantha, one of its former parliament members, has been removed from caucus after an independent investigator substantiated a series of serious allegations.
Mantha, who won four straight elections in Algoma-Manitoulin, faces claims of workplace misconduct. The nature of the allegations has not been publicly shared.
As a result of the claims made against Mantha, the NDP launched an independent third-party investigation “to create a safer workplace environment.” The investigator determined that the assertions were serious and violated its policies.
“The investigator based these findings on interviews with multiple witnesses, including those identified by MPP Mantha, as well as other documentary evidence, including video,” the NDP wrote in a statement on Tuesday.
“The Caucus also understands that although MPP Mantha initially participated in the investigation, he refused to personally attend an interview and did not provide documents promised to and requested by the investigator.”
Mantha told the CBC in late June that he was not “innocent in this whole process” but maintained that he has owned up to his errors and was working to “become a better individual.”
Mantha has sat as an Independent MPP since April as he looks ahead to the 2026 election campaign.
Shortly after announcing the decision to remove Mantha from caucus permanently, Ontario NDP leader Marit Stiles said she takes her responsibility for safe and respectful workplaces seriously.
“The independent, third-party investigation is now complete, and based on its findings, the Member will not be returning to the NDP Caucus,” Stiles said. “Members of our caucus, and all elected officials, must be held to the higher standard for their behaviour and how they use the power they have.”
Mantha was first elected as a member of Ontario’s NDP in October 2011. He served as the party’s critic for portfolios including Northern Development and Mines, Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation and Northern Development and Tourism.
