Doug Ford is blaming what he calls the “mess” he inherited from his predecessor for his controversial decision to appoint about a dozen Tory candidates in ridings across the province.

The Progressive Conservative leader says the appointments — announced over the weekend — were necessary because of the short time left before the spring election campaign begins in early May.

Ford, who criticized former Tory leader Patrick Brown for making appointments in the past, says he “hates” the practice.

He says there were 28 ridings without Tory candidates when he took over as leader in March, and his team was able to fill 17 through traditional nomination races.

Several Tory nomination candidates have publicly complained about the appointments, calling them unfair.

Ontario’s election is set for June 7.