Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced he will step down after nearly nine years in office, citing internal party struggles and declining public support. Trudeau will remain in office until a new leader is chosen by the Liberal Party, with Parliament suspended until March 24.
Trudeau, 53, said the decision came after reflecting on the challenges he faced, stating, “This country deserves a real choice in the next election, and it has become clear to me that if I’m having to fight internal battles, I cannot be the best option in that election.”
Liberal Party President Sachit Mehra praised Trudeau’s leadership, highlighting key initiatives like the Canada Child Benefit and expanded health coverage. However, the Prime Minister’s resignation follows rising discontent within the party, especially after Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland’s resignation in December over Trudeau’s handling of U.S. tariff threats.
Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre dismissed the move, claiming it would not change Liberal policies. Public opinion polls show the Conservatives holding a strong lead.
Trudeau’s leadership was marked by achievements such as cannabis legalization and gender equality in the cabinet, but also controversies, including the SNC-Lavalin affair and criticism over vaccine mandates. His resignation marks the end of an era in Canadian politics, as the Liberal Party now faces the challenge of selecting a new leader for the upcoming election.
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