In brief
Tensions between Canada and the U.S. escalate as a petition seeks to revoke Elon Musk’s citizenship, linked to his political influence and controversial remarks.
In Canada, a vigorous petition aiming to revoke Elon Musk's Canadian citizenship is gaining traction, with over 250,000 signatories in just five days. The drive, which began on February 20, targets Musk for allegedly undermining Canada's sovereignty and acting against national interests, particularly amid rising tensions with the Trump administration.The petition, initiated by a British Columbia author and supported by MP Charlie Angus, accuses Musk of using his significant wealth to interfere in Canadian elections. Musk, who holds dual citizenship due to his mother, a Saskatchewan native, responded to the claims by dismissively stating on social media, “Canada is not a real country,” although he later deleted the post.While Canadian law permits citizenship revocation under circumstances of fraud or misrepresentation, many view the petition as largely symbolic, especially since the upcoming spring elections could disrupt any parliamentary response. Despite lacking legal weight, petitions that achieve a minimum of 500 signatures and have a member of parliament's endorsement typically receive acknowledgment from the government.The political climate has been strained, particularly as former President Trump has suggested contentious ideas regarding Canadian sovereignty and threatened trade tariffs. Canadians are reacting strongly, with some opting to cancel trips to the U.S. and boycotting American products.Musk, who emigrated to Canada from South Africa at 18, has been entangled in controversial discussions surrounding his immigration status and has faced attacks from both sides of the political spectrum. While he became a U.S. citizen in 2002, scrutiny over allegations of working illegally in the U.S. remains.As the momentum of the petition grows, Musk’s forthcoming response, which the BBC has sought, and the unfolding political narrative between Canada and the United States, will be of keen interest to many observers.
