Why Did Malhotra and the Executive Board Change the Election Timeline?

Something stinks in LiUNA 1611.

For years, nominations for union elections have been held in May. But suddenly, they’ve been pushed forward to April 5th, 2025. Why?

Perhaps its to do with the fact that just one day earlier, on April 4th, a major court case involving serious allegations against Business Manager Nav Malhotra and President Mark Olsen is scheduled to wrap up.

 March 31st - April 4th – A trial at the Vancouver Law Courts will hear allegations of misconduct against Malhotra and Olsen in a lawsuit filed by Robert David Barker against Construction and Specialized Workers Union, Local 1611 April 4th – The final day of court proceedings. April 5th – Nominations open for the election.

Why the Sudden Date Change?

One has to ask: Is this a deliberate move to keep the court’s findings from influencing the election? Are they afraid that if members knew the full truth, they’d be voted out?

The Allegations

 Nav Malhotra’s Alleged Misconduct:

According to the lawsuit, Malhotra is accused of engaging in an affair with the wife of a union member. Worse yet, when confronted, he allegedly lied and denied everything.

As Business Manager, Malhotra should be fighting for better wages, fair contracts, and strong job protections. Instead, these allegations suggest his focus has been elsewhere.

 Mark Olsen’s Alleged Failure to Lead:

Rather than investigating these concerns, President Mark Olsen is accused of ignoring them altogether. Instead of upholding the integrity of our union, Olsen allegedly swept the issue under the rug.

What This Means for You

Leadership is about trust. Can we really trust people who dodge accountability, manipulate election timelines, and ignore serious concerns? Instead of answering to us, the members, they seem more interested in protecting themselves.

We Deserve Leadership That Puts Members First

 Strong leadership doesn’t run from accountability. Strong leadership doesn’t play political games to stay in power. Strong leadership fights for YOU—not themselves.

Attend the Trial and Hold Your Leadership Accountable

The trial starts March 31st at 10:00 AM at the Vancouver Law Courts. It’s your chance to hear the defence they bring up for themselves. Don’t let your leadership hide from the truth.

This is why we need change. This spring, Your Voice is Your Power.

Take charge. Make a difference. Vote for Change. Vote for Your Future!

In solidarity, 

The Voice of the Members