OTTAWA - The Green Party has turfed one of its candidates just days before an expected federal election call over allegations he made remarks deemed anti-Semitic.

John Shavluk was ejected as the party's candidate in British Columbia's Newton-North Delta riding Thursday following word that he made such comments in 2006 in an online forum.

"Respect for diversity is a fundamental principle of the Green Party," leader Elizabeth May said in a written statement.

"We condemn anti-Semitism and our members work to encourage respectful dialogue, diversity, peace and co-operation."

May said she spoke directly with Shavluk, and told him he cannot stand as a candidate in the election campaign that's expected to be called Sunday.

"I communicated with John and thanked him for his work on behalf of the Green Party but explained that he will not be a candidate because his views are not consistent with our philosophy," she said.

"I will not sign his nomination papers and the Green Party will nominate another candidate."

Prime Minister Stephen Harper will visit with Governor General Michaelle Jean early Sunday and ask her to dissolve Parliament, sources say.

Harper is expected to call an election for Oct. 14.

The controversy appeared to have originated from Shavluk's lengthy rant on a forum called enmasse.ca about drug laws, police, the war in Iraq, and conspiracy theories about 9-11. The meandering comments included a brief reference to a "Jewish world bank."

Shavluk said he's "completely innocent," and is shocked because the Green Party knew about the forum post -- one of thousands he's made -- more than a year ago.

"Why all of a sudden they're doing this now? I'm completely in the dark," he said in an interview after May made her announcement.

Shavluk said he's worked tirelessly to bring New Democrat and Marijuana Party supporters into the Green fold, and his comments are being used to silence efforts to legalize the drug.

"The Green Party are pretty much cutting their legs out beneath them" by preventing him from running, Shavluk said.

Even as the Green Party was removing Shavluk as a candidate Friday, Internet bloggers were writing about his comments -- some criticizing him, others coming to his defence.

One blogger identifying himself as Matt called Shavluk and friend and dismissed the allegations against him.

"Let me be very clear about this. John is not, has never been and will never be an `anti-semite.' In fact, the charge is preposterous, absurd and laughable."