Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced his intention to step down as leader of the Liberal Party once a successor is chosen, marking the end of a tumultuous era in Canadian politics. Speaking outside his official residence, Rideau Cottage, on Monday morning, Trudeau revealed his decision to resign after nearly a decade at the helm of the country.
Trudeau, who became Liberal leader in 2013 and assumed the role of prime minister in 2015, also disclosed that he had requested and received approval from Governor General Mary Simon to prorogue Parliament until March 24. This move sets the stage for a competitive leadership race within the Liberal Party to find a new leader capable of challenging Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre in the upcoming federal election.
The prime minister’s decision comes amid mounting pressure from within his own party and declining public support. Over two dozen individual MPs and several regional caucuses, including those from Atlantic Canada, Quebec, and Ontario, had called for his resignation prior to the holiday break. Trudeau’s political future was further jeopardized last month when Chrystia Freeland, his long-standing top lieutenant, unexpectedly resigned from her positions as finance minister and deputy prime minister.
Trudeau’s tenure as prime minister has been marked by significant policy changes, including the legalization of cannabis and the introduction of a national carbon pricing system. However, recent polls have indicated a sharp decline in public approval, with the Liberal Party trailing behind the Conservatives in voter intention.
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