Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau Announces Resignation

TDT | Manama

Email: ashen@newsofbahrain.com

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has declared his intention to step down as leader of the Liberal Party and prime minister once a new party leader is selected. The announcement was made from Rideau Cottage in Ottawa on Monday.

Trudeau to Step Down in March 2025

Trudeau confirmed that he will remain in office until March 24, 2025, after which the newly appointed Liberal Party leader will take over as prime minister.

“I intend to resign as party leader, as prime minister, after the party selects its next leader through a robust, nationwide, competitive process,” Trudeau stated during his announcement.

The Canadian Parliament’s new session, originally scheduled to commence on January 27, 2025, has been postponed. Trudeau revealed that he requested the governor general to delay the session until March 24, allowing time for the leadership transition.

Emotional Farewell to Canadians

During his speech, Trudeau expressed his deep commitment to the nation, emphasizing his enduring motivation to serve Canadians.

“I’m a fighter. 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,” he said.

Speaking in both English and French, Trudeau also mentioned that he shared the news of his resignation with his children the previous night.

Cabinet Turmoil and Freeland’s Resignation

Trudeau’s decision comes a month after Chrystia Freeland, Canada’s deputy prime minister and finance minister, resigned from his Cabinet. Her departure indicated growing unrest within Trudeau’s government.

Freeland’s resignation letter highlighted her disagreement with Trudeau’s approach to handling trade issues with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump. She cited concerns over Trump’s proposed 25% tariffs on Canadian imports, stressing the need for Canada to adopt a stronger stance against economic nationalism.

“Our country today faces a grave challenge. The incoming administration in the United States is pursuing a policy of aggressive economic nationalism, including a threat of 25 percent tariffs,” Freeland wrote.

Freeland’s letter also noted that Trudeau offered her a different role in the Cabinet, which she declined, choosing instead to step down from her ministerial duties.

Recent Political Challenges

Trudeau’s government has faced a series of setbacks in recent months, including the announcement by Housing Minister Sean Fraser that he will not seek re-election due to personal reasons. Fraser cited his desire to spend more time with his family as a key factor in his decision.

The Liberal Party’s support has been steadily declining, with recent polls showing the Conservative Party holding a 21-point lead ahead of the next federal election, scheduled for October 2025. According to CBC News, the Liberals are currently at their lowest level of public support in years.

Trudeau’s Legacy

Justin Trudeau became Canada’s 23rd prime minister in 2015, leading the Liberal Party to victory with a platform focused on progressive policies, economic reform, and social justice. He is the son of former Prime Minister Pierre Elliott Trudeau, who served as Canada’s prime minister from 1968 to 1979 and again from 1980 to 1984.

Despite recent political turbulence, Trudeau’s tenure has been marked by significant milestones, including climate policies, gender equality initiatives, and reconciliation efforts with Indigenous communities.

What’s Next for Canada?

The Liberal Party is expected to hold a nationwide leadership contest to choose Trudeau’s successor. The party’s future direction will depend on the new leader’s vision and approach to addressing Canada’s economic and social challenges.

As Canada gears up for a leadership transition, the political landscape remains dynamic. The coming months will be crucial in shaping the nation’s path forward, both domestically and on the global stage.