r/eastgwillimbury

🚨 CANDIDATE ALERT: Real Estate Broker Candidate Raka Paul Claims "Leadership Begins With Listening" — So Why Block Transparency? 🚨

I recently submitted four fundamental accountability questions to all candidates running in East Gwillimbury. The goal was to better understand each candidate’s position on public interest, council accountability, and transparency before the municipal election on October 26, 2026.

Instead of addressing these basic questions, Ward 2 Candidate Raka Paul’s response was to block me on social media (Facebook).

The Stated Platform vs. The Action: On his official campaign website, Candidate Paul notes that his professional background has taught him "the importance of accountability, fairness, listening, and responsible decision-making," adding that he looks forward to "hearing ideas and concerns." His campaign materials also feature the prominent slogan: "Leadership begins with listening."

Yet, when presented with standard questions regarding the public interest, transparency, and accountability, the resulting action was not an open discussion, but a block on his social media platform.

Why Municipal Transparency Matters for Ward 2: East Gwillimbury is navigating significant development pressures, zoning amendments, and infrastructure planning. For any candidate—particularly one whose professional background involves overseeing real estate offices and trading in "exclusive off-market and presale properties"—a commitment to transparent, open dialogue regarding land use, planning, and council decisions is critical.

If a candidate is unwilling to engage with inquiries regarding transparency during a campaign, it raises valid questions about how they will handle constituent concerns and public scrutiny when making major decisions involving municipal tax dollars.

I recognize and respect the candidates across the political spectrum who have kept the door open to public dialogue, even when there is strong disagreement.

On my own campaign platforms, I have committed to leaving comments visible—even critical ones—without resorting to blocking users. True transparency means remaining fully accessible to the public.

When residents elect a councillor on October 26, 2026, that individual is chosen to represent the entire community. It is vital that our representatives are prepared to listen to all constituents.

Have you had a similar experience when asking local candidates direct questions?

I encourage all candidates to review and respond to my questions by the October 10th deadline to help ensure East Gwillimbury residents have access to fully informed perspectives.

Action matters: Please share this post with your community and discuss it with your neighbours to help build strong community advocacy.

In East Gwillimbury, you elect two ward councillors, giving you the power to shape our community's future. Make Shahab Aryan your absolute first choice to bring independent, engineered leadership to Town Council.

My full platform and detailed plans are available on my website at www.ShahabAryan.ca . I encourage you to read them, and you can always reach me directly at Shahab@ShahabAryan.ca with any questions, concerns, or ideas.

Shahab Aryan, P.Eng.
Independent Ward 2 Candidate