Ottawa: Chaos in Canada’s capital after Truckers rally, Justin Trudeau leaves home

Picture Courtesy: Reuters

Today thousands of people joined the Freedom Convoy in Ottawa protesting the vaccine mandate for truckers crossing the US-Canada border. The protest has brought the nation’s capital to a standstill for a second day.

There were several disturbing incidents reported during the protests, including the appearance of swastika flags and footage of a woman dancing naked on the tomb of the unknown soldier. Ottawa police said that investigation is underway.

The defense minister of Canada, Anita Anand said the incidents were "beyond reprehensible”. The protesters blocked the street around the parliament building and there are reports that they harassed staff members of a local restaurant.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau left the capital with his family over safety concerns on Saturday. Earlier during a press conference, Trudeau called the protestors "a small fringe minority”. The demonstrators are now demanding the removal of vaccine mandates nationwide.

Conservative leader Erin O’Toole met with some of the protestors and has spoken in favor of the right to peaceful demonstration, but criticized "individuals desecrating" memorials in Ottawa.

The United States government has also said that the truck drivers crossing the border will need to show proof of vaccination to enter the country.