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Kevin O’Leary accused of delaying Tory leadership bid until after French debate

Kevin O'Leary has not yet confirmed he will run for Conservative party leadership. Matthew Eisman/Getty Images

OTTAWA – Conservative leadership hopeful Andrew Scheer is accusing possible candidate Kevin O’Leary of trying to avoid an all-French debate in two weeks.

Scheer released a statement today urging the Montreal-born businessman to formalize his candidacy and participate in the Quebec City event Jan. 17.

READ MORE: Kevin O’Leary one step closer to Conservative leadership jump

He says it’s obvious O’Leary wants to get into the race and that he has an obligation to all French-speaking Conservatives to take part in the French debate.

Some people in the Conservative party believe it is essential that Stephen Harper’s replacement has the ability to speak French.

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O’Leary doesn’t speak the language and has stated he doesn’t need to in order to communicate with Quebecers.

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The deadline to register for the leadership race is Feb. 24, with the winner chosen May 27.

There are currently 13 candidates in the running.

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