Elections Alberta quietly investigated Edmonton businessman Sam Mraiche earlier this year over allegations that he made prohibited political contributions to both the governing United Conservative Party and the opposition New Democratic Party, according to newly surfaced court records.
Mraiche, already a central figure in Alberta’s health-procurement controversy, was compelled by the elections watchdog to take part in an interview related to the donation claims. When he initially failed to appear, Elections Alberta sought a court finding of contempt — a move that revealed the existence of the confidential probe for the first time.
His lawyer says Mraiche has since complied and participated in the interview, prompting Elections Alberta to withdraw its contempt application in September.
The investigation is separate from the ongoing scrutiny over Mraiche’s role in Alberta’s medical procurement contracts, but it adds to the political sensitivity surrounding his business activities and alleged influence across party lines.
