Independent B.C. MLA says he will not resign while facing assault charges

Independent MLA Hon Chan says he will not step down from his legislative seat after assault charges related to an alleged incident of intimate partner violence became public, leading to his removal from the Conservative caucus.

Speaking briefly to reporters outside the legislative chamber Monday, Chan said he intends to remain in office, adding that “everybody is actually innocent until proven guilty.” The charges relate to an alleged incident dated Jan. 12, 2024. Chan has said he was not contacted by police before the October 2025 provincial election, when he was elected as a Conservative MLA for Richmond Centre.

Elenore Sturko, now also sitting as an Independent, said Chan should resign given the seriousness of the allegations, while acknowledging the presumption of innocence. She said the situation raises concerns about whether he can maintain public trust while facing the charges.

Chan has stated he did not mislead constituents or his party and said he was not informed about the appointment of a special prosecutor in June 2025. The B.C. Prosecution Service typically appoints a special prosecutor in cases involving elected officials to avoid perceived conflicts of interest.

Jeremy Valeriote of the B.C. Greens said he agrees Chan is entitled to the presumption of innocence but questioned whether the ongoing legal matter could interfere with his legislative responsibilities. Valeriote added the existence of a special prosecutor should have been disclosed to the public earlier.