2025 Federal election: Aris Movsessian looks to bring fresh leadership to Scarborough-Agincourt

TORONTOHYE—With just one day until Canadians head to the polls, Conservative Party of Canada candidate Aris Movsessian is offering Scarborough-Agincourt voters a clear choice: a fresh voice committed to action, accountability, and community connection.

A lifelong resident of Scarborough-Agincourt, Movsessian attended ARS Armenian Private School before going on to study business administration at the University of Toronto, specializing in management and accounting. Born to Armenian immigrant parents who left Iran and Kuwait in search of opportunity, he reflects the hard work, resilience, and community spirit that define the riding he hopes to serve.

Movsessian's passion for politics took root early. At just 12 years old, he began volunteering for Aris Babikian's provincial campaign—an experience that cemented his belief in the power of public service. "Seeing the difference that Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) Babikian made in his constituents' lives was incredibly inspiring; it fueled my commitment to continue his work—this time on the federal level," Movsessian told Torontohye in a December 2024 interview. "I believe that by advocating for the diverse communities in my area and working to make Canada a better place for families, I can bring about real, meaningful change."

Since then, Movsessian has stayed active in politics at every level, earning a reputation for his dedication, energy, and hands-on experience.Last month, he was officially nominated as the Conservative candidate for Scarborough-Agincourt, positioning himself as a new voice for a riding that Liberal MPs have represented for nearly four decades.

Throughout his campaign, Movsessian has focused on key priorities raised by residents: affordability, public safety, housing, economic opportunity, and ensuring local concerns are heard at the national level. "Scarborough-Agincourt is my home, and I'm ready to bring a fresh perspective and real dedication to serve our community," Movsessian said. "After decades of the same representation, it's time for a new voice—one that understands our diverse backgrounds and is committed to meaningful change."

Alongside local issues, Movsessian has also pledged to be a strong advocate for Armenia and Artsakh. Reflecting on the role Parliament plays in shaping Canada's foreign policy, he emphasized the importance of giving a voice to Armenians facing displacement and injustice. "If I have the honour of serving as Member of Parliament (MP) for Scarborough-Agincourt, I will ensure that the voices of the people of Armenia and the forcibly displaced people of Artsakh are heard in Canada's Parliament," he said. "My promise to the people of Armenia and Artsakh is to do everything within my power to see them return to their rightful lands and homes."

Maintaining a respectful and positive campaign has been a key focus for Movsessian. Even after several of his signs were vandalized earlier this month—an act he called "deeply troubling" and "undemocratic"—he remained committed to the values of fair campaigning and community connection. "Let's keep the focus on positive, fair campaigning," Movsessian said. "Constructive dialogue and community connection must remain at the heart of the democratic process."

With election day approaching, Movsessian and his team have continued meeting residents, knocking on doors, and attending community events across the riding. His message of real, local leadership has resonated, particularly among young voters and members of Scarborough's diverse communities who are eager for change.

Movsessian's campaign has earned broad support from Armenian community leaders and organizations across Toronto, including the Armenian National Committee of Toronto and the Armenian Community Centre of Toronto - Թորոնթոյի Հայ Կեդրոն (ACC Toronto). Karnig Hasserjian, President of ACC Toronto, said Movsessian's candidacy is an important moment for the community. "It is vital to have strong Armenian voices in Parliament... to stand up for our community here in Toronto and to speak out for Armenia and Artsakh internationally," Hasserjian told Torontohye. "Aris knows our community, our values, and what we are working toward. He will be a strong advocate for us in Ottawa."

Movsessian will face off against incumbent Liberal MP Jean Yip, who first won the riding in a 2017 by-election and secured 56 percent of the vote in 2021, and NDP candidate Dan Lovell.

"With your support, I'll work hard to build a stronger future for all of us," Movsessian said.

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Canadians will head to the polls tomorrow, on Monday, April 28, 2025, to elect the next federal government. This election will decide the makeup of the 45th Parliament and will be the first under Canada’s updated 343-seat electoral map.