Political contemporaries and council colleagues are demanding a resignation from Toronto Mayor Rob Ford after Wednesday’s episode in which the media uncovered another video of him smoking crack cocaine.
Another media outlet also released an audio recording of the mayor in a bar at which he was making explicit comments about political contemporary Councilor Karen Stintz.
Following this the mayor announced that he would take a temporary break from his mayoral duties and election campaign and get professional help for his addiction. He did not communicate a final plan to the media after leaving his house for a break.
Stintz, against whom the degrading comments were made, called them "gross" and told media sources that she was "disappointed by the misogynistic language used by Mayor Ford."
Others such as Councilor John Parker, one of Ford’s former allies, were sterner in their criticism and said that the mayor should go and never come back.
"I don’t foresee things turning around in 30 days and I don’t see things turning around at any point sufficient to qualify him to be a serious candidate for high office or to carry on in the job that he’s got," he said.
Ford’s decision to take professional help has gathered mix reactions from different circles. Many feel that even though it is a step in the right direction but it has come too late in time, after Ford’s name has been the hub of controversy for a while. However his family and friends are happy that he has taken this step and are being supportive.
Ford’s brother particularly, Councilor Doug Ford, who is also his re-election campaign manager, told media sources that he was relieved with this step of his.
"I love my brother. I’ll continue to stand by my brother and his family throughout this difficult journey," he said.
Prime Minster Stephen Harper also released an official statement showing his support.
“The mayor’s comments and behavior are very troubling. We are pleased to hear [he] has entered rehab to seek treatment for his addiction,” he said.