Citing ‘internal battles’, Canada’s Prime Minister Trudeau resigns

International

AN EMBATTLED Justin Trudeau is ending his nearly nine-year tenure as Prime Minister of Canada after he announced his decision to step down on Monday.

Amid growing dissatisfaction within his own party, Trudeau stated he would remain in office until the Liberal Party elects a new leader, with Parliament set to be prorogued until March 24.

"I cannot be the best option in the next election if I am fighting internal battles," Trudeau explained at a press conference in Ottawa, signaling that his leadership had become a hindrance to his party’s electoral chances.

Trudeau, 53, acknowledged that he shared the decision with his children the night before, underscoring the emotional weight of his resignation.

Liberal Party President Sachit Mehra confirmed that the process of selecting a new leader would begin soon, with the board of directors set to meet this week.

Despite Trudeau's exit, Mehra praised his leadership, highlighting achievements such as the Canada Child Benefit, and dental and pharmacare programs for certain medications.

Trudeau's departure follows months of growing discontent within his party, exacerbated by a December resignation from Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland, a longtime ally.

Her departure, coupled with declining support from key political partners, left the Liberal government increasingly vulnerable.

Opposition leader Pierre Poilievre of the Conservative Party was quick to criticize the move, claiming that Trudeau's resignation would not change the core issues facing Canadians, as his party had supported his policies throughout his leadership.

Trudeau's resignation also coincides with shifting public sentiment.

Polls suggest the Liberals face a significant challenge in the upcoming federal elections, with the Conservative Party maintaining a strong lead.

With the Liberals now poised to choose a new leader, political observers are awaiting the next chapter in Canada's political landscape.(CMM)