Justin Trudeau, who has served as Canada’s prime minister for nearly ten years, announced his resignation on Monday morning during a press conference in Ottawa. Trudeau, 53, stated that he would also step down as the leader of the ruling Liberal Party but would remain in his position as prime minister until the party selects a new leader.
“As you all know, I’m a fighter,” Trudeau said. “Every bone in my body has always told me to fight because I care deeply about Canadians. I care deeply about this country, and I will always be motivated by what is in the best interest of Canadians.”
This decision follows declining public support for Trudeau and mounting pressure within his own party to step aside. According to The Wall Street Journal, internal party conflicts and criticism of Trudeau’s leadership over recent years played a major role in his decision.
Trudeau’s administration has faced multiple challenges recently, including the resignation of Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland over policy differences and dwindling approval ratings among voters. As the Liberal Party gears up for a leadership race, potential candidates include Mark Carney, the former head of the Bank of Canada, and Dominic LeBlanc, a senior cabinet minister, The Times reported.
Reflecting on his tenure, which began in 2015, Trudeau expressed pride in his government’s accomplishments. “It has been my honor to serve Canadians every day as prime minister. From supporting people through the COVID-19 pandemic to strengthening our democratic institutions and boosting our economy, I am proud of what we have achieved together,” he said during the press conference, as reported by the BBC.
Trudeau’s resignation has prompted calls for elections later this year. Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre, who has been leading in polls, emphasized the need for Canadians to choose a new direction for the country, according to The New York Post.
Trudeau’s departure marks the end of an era in Canadian politics, leaving the Liberal Party and the country at a critical crossroads ahead of the anticipated elections.
Sources: BBC, The Wall Street Journal, The Times, The New York Post.
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