OPPOPP have filed charges after what they call a complex and unusual investigation into allegations of irregularities involving a local electoral candidate nomination process in Sudbury.

61 year old Gerald Lougheed is facing two charges including one count of Unlawfully Influencing or Negotiating Appointments.

He has a November court date.

It’s alleged a would-be candidate was offered a job or appointment to step aside for another candidate in the provincial byelection earlier this year in Sudbury.

The government faced a barrage of questions on the matter during Question Period, including one from Nipissing MPP Vic Fedeli.

He asked if the Premier’s Chief of Staff should step aside until they hear about charges from the Chief Elections Officer.

Deputy Premier Deb Matthews continually eluded to the police investigation and that they’ve co-operated fully with them and will continue to do so.