- Prime Minister Trudeau announces plans to Step down as Liberal Leader and PM
- Parliament is prorogued until March 24
Ottawa, ON, Canada (WNEWS) – Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced his intention to resign as the leader of the Liberal Party and Canada’s prime minister, marking the end of an era that began in 2015. Trudeau cited mounting internal pressure within his party and waning public support as key factors in his decision. The announcement has sent shockwaves through Canada’s political landscape, leaving the Liberal Party scrambling to regroup for the next federal election.
Internal Challenges Mount
Trudeau’s resignation follows months of escalating challenges within the Liberal Party. Reports suggest that internal divisions have grown over his handling of critical national issues such as inflation, housing affordability, and healthcare funding. These tensions, compounded by faltering approval ratings, left Trudeau facing what insiders describe as an untenable situation.
Economic struggles have been at the forefront of Trudeau’s declining popularity. Soaring housing costs, persistent inflation, and a slowing economy have placed immense pressure on everyday Canadians, who have increasingly criticized the government’s response. A recent Nanos Research poll showed the Conservative Party, led by Pierre Poilievre, with a significant lead over the Liberals. It made it clear that Trudeau’s leadership was facing an uphill battle.
Parliament Prorogued Until March 24
In a move to stabilize the Liberal Party during its leadership transition, Trudeau has requested Governor General Mary Simon to prorogue Parliament until March 24. This decision effectively suspends all parliamentary activity, including opposition motions and debate, until a new Liberal leader is selected. While prorogation is not uncommon during times of leadership change, opposition parties have criticized the move as a tactic to shield the government from scrutiny.
Pierre Poilievre, leader of the opposition Conservatives, has called for an immediate federal election, arguing that Canadians deserve a say in who leads the country. “The Liberal Party is more focused on its internal chaos than addressing the issues affecting Canadians,” Poilievre stated during a press conference, adding that prorogation deprives Parliament of its ability to hold the government accountable.
Trudeau’s Legacy
Trudeau leaves behind a mixed legacy. His early years in office were marked by progressive policies, including legalizing cannabis, implementing carbon pricing, and achieving gender parity in his Cabinet. However, his tenure was also marred by controversies, such as the SNC-Lavalin affair and a perceived failure to address Indigenous reconciliation meaningfully.
The Liberal Party now faces the daunting task of selecting a leader capable of rebuilding the party’s image and momentum ahead of the next federal election, which could come as early as 2025. High-profile figures such as Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland and Industry Minister François-Philippe Champagne are already being speculated as potential successors.
What’s Next for Canada?
The prorogation of Parliament leaves a temporary political vacuum in Ottawa, with the federal government effectively in a holding pattern. Key legislative priorities, such as housing reform and climate policy, will be delayed until Parliament resumes. For the opposition, this moment represents an opportunity to seize the narrative and consolidate support among disenchanted voters.
As Canada prepares for this new chapter, the coming months will be pivotal in determining the country’s political trajectory. For Trudeau, stepping aside after nine years in power marks the conclusion of a significant era in Canadian politics.
