Diaspora (Commonwealth Union) _ Sri Lankan-born Gary Anandasangaree has officially taken office as Canada’s Minister of Justice and Attorney General, while also continuing his role as Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs. The swearing-in ceremony, held at Rideau Hall in Ottawa, coincided with the formation of a new cabinet under Prime Minister Mark Carney.
The appointment of Carney’s streamlined cabinet has been met with significant attention, particularly from Indigenous groups, who have extended their congratulations while underscoring the need for ongoing collaboration to address pressing social and economic challenges. These include service disparities, funding gaps, and policy concerns amid shifting international dynamics.
Following his appointment, Anandasangaree took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his commitment to his new role, stating:
“Honoured to serve as Minister of Justice and Attorney General, while continuing the work at Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs. We will protect the Charter, uphold the rule of law, and stay true to Canadian values. Ready to get to work with Prime Minister of Canada and Leader of the Liberal Party Mark Carney.”
A Political Journey Rooted in Advocacy
Born in Jaffna, Sri Lanka, in 1973, Anandasangaree is the son of V. Anandasangaree, a renowned Sri Lankan Tamil politician and leader of the Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF). His political journey in Canada began when he joined the Liberal Party, eventually winning the nomination for Scarborough Rouge Park in 2014 and securing a landslide victory in the 2015 federal election with 60.1% of the vote.
Throughout his tenure, Anandasangaree has been a strong advocate for human rights, using his platform in Parliament to support global causes. He has spoken on International Human Rights Day, championed refugee resettlement efforts, and played a key role in securing protection for Iranian scholar Dr. Hossein Raessi through a collaborative initiative between Carleton University and the University of Ottawa.
Key Contributions to Indigenous Relations
Anandasangaree has been deeply involved in Indigenous affairs, serving on the Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Committee during the 42nd Canadian Parliament. His dedication to Indigenous rights led to his appointment as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations in May 2021, followed by a role as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada. In July 2023, he was elevated to Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, solidifying his influence in shaping policies for Indigenous communities.
During the 2025 Liberal Party leadership race, Anandasangaree endorsed Mark Carney, who has now ascended to the position of Canada’s Prime Minister. With his dual ministerial responsibilities, Anandasangaree is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping justice reforms, upholding Canadian values, and strengthening Indigenous relations in the years ahead.
