Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is reportedly leaning towards stepping down as leader of the Liberal Party after nine years in office, according to a source familiar with his thinking. While Trudeau has not made a final decision, the announcement could come as early as Monday, the “Globe” and “Mail” reported.
The source, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, indicated that Trudeau’s potential departure is fueled by mounting pressure from within the Liberal Party. With polls showing a steep decline in Liberal support and the opposition Conservatives poised for a landslide victory in the next election, many Liberal lawmakers have publicly urged Trudeau to resign.
Trudeau’s departure would leave the Liberal Party scrambling to appoint a new leader ahead of a federal election that must be held by late October. Sources suggest an announcement could precede an emergency meeting of Liberal legislators scheduled for Wednesday.
It remains unclear whether Trudeau would step down immediately or stay on as prime minister until a new leader is chosen. Discussions have reportedly taken place between Trudeau and Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc about the possibility of LeBlanc serving as interim leader, though this might be complicated if LeBlanc intends to run for the permanent leadership role.
The Prime Minister’s Office has not commented on the reports, and Trudeau’s official schedule for Monday lists him as participating virtually in a cabinet committee meeting on Canada-U.S. relations.
Trudeau became Liberal leader in 2013, when the party was in disarray, and led them to a stunning victory in 2015 with his message of “sunny ways” and a progressive agenda. His leadership initially focused on climate action, promoting gender equality, and rebuilding trust in Canadian institutions.
However, his tenure has been marked by increasing challenges. The pandemic consumed much of his government’s attention, leading to record spending to protect businesses and consumers. Despite these efforts, soaring inflation and rising public discontent eroded support. Additionally, a controversial immigration policy contributed to an overheated housing market, fueling further criticism.
Calls for Trudeau to step aside intensified after a failed attempt in December to demote then-Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland, a trusted ally. Freeland resigned instead, accusing Trudeau of prioritising “political gimmicks” over the nation’s best interests.
Trudeau’s potential resignation would mark a pivotal moment for the Liberals, who face an uphill battle to regain voter confidence. The party’s declining fortunes have been evident in recent months, including the loss of traditionally safe seats in special elections.
If Trudeau steps down, it could spark calls for an early election to secure a stable government, especially as Canada prepares for complex relations with the United States under President-elect Donald Trump.
As Trudeau reflects on his political legacy, his departure would signal the end of an era for Canada’s Liberals and set the stage for a critical period of renewal within the party.
Melissa Enoch
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