Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced on Monday his decision to step down as leader of the ruling Liberal Party after nine years in office. However, Trudeau will remain in his role as prime minister until a successor is chosen.
At a press conference, Trudeau cited internal pressures within the party and the need for a new direction ahead of the next federal election. “This country deserves a real choice in the next election, and it has become clear to me that if I’m having to fight internal battles, I cannot be the best option in that election,” he said.
Trudeau, 53, first took office in November 2015 and has since secured re-election twice, making him one of Canada’s longest-serving prime ministers. His tenure began with a promise of “sunny ways” and progressive policies, but his popularity has waned in recent years due to public frustration over rising prices and a severe housing crisis.
The decline in support for the Liberals has been stark, with polls suggesting the party faces a significant defeat to the opposition Conservatives in the next election, which must be held by late October.
Trudeau’s decision comes amid mounting pressure from within his party following the loss of traditionally safe seats in two special elections last year. Calls for his resignation intensified last month after a public clash with Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland. Trudeau attempted to demote Freeland over disagreements on spending policies, prompting her resignation and a scathing letter accusing him of focusing on “political gimmicks” rather than the country’s needs.
Trudeau announced that parliament would be suspended until March 24, delaying the possibility of a non-confidence motion from opposition parties and effectively ruling out an election before May. He confirmed that Canada’s Governor General, the representative of King Charles III in Canada, had approved the prorogation of parliament.
The decision to delay parliament provides a buffer as the Liberal Party searches for new leadership. While opposition parties, particularly the Conservatives, had pledged to bring down the government as soon as possible, the timeline now pushes that opportunity further into the year.
“Removing me from the equation as the leader who will fight the next election for the Liberal Party should also decrease the level of polarisation that we’re seeing right now in the House and in Canadian politics,” Trudeau stated.
The Conservative Party, led by Pierre Poilievre, has been gaining momentum. Poilievre, a career politician, gained national attention in early 2022 for his support of truck drivers who occupied Ottawa during protests against COVID-19 vaccine mandates.
As Trudeau prepares to hand over the reins of leadership, the political landscape remains uncertain. The transition period will be critical for the Liberal Party as it seeks to rebuild its standing with voters and counter the growing appeal of the Conservatives.
Trudeau’s departure marks the end of an era in Canadian politics, leaving his party with the challenge of renewing its vision and reconnecting with a divided electorate.
Melissa Enoch
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