Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced on January 6th that he will resign as leader of the Liberal Party but will continue to serve as Prime Minister until a new party leader is chosen.
Speaking outside Rideau Cottage in Ottawa, Trudeau explained that internal conflicts within the party have made it clear he cannot be the best candidate for the next federal election.
In his resignation speech, he shared: “Every morning, I’ve woken up as prime minister, I’ve been inspired by the resilience, the generosity and the determination of Canadians. It is the driving force of every single day I have the privilege of serving in this office.
Trudeau, who has led Canada since 2015, expressed pride in his government’s accomplishments, particularly in reducing poverty, strengthening the middle class, and advancing reconciliation with Indigenous peoples.
However, he also acknowledged that despite his efforts, Parliament has been gridlocked for months, preventing him from leading effectively. “I intend to resign as party leader, as prime minister, after the party selects its next leader through a robust, nationwide, competitive process.,” he said.
Trudeau emphasized: “ 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. “
The Prime Minister confirmed that he has asked Governor General Mary Simon to prorogue Parliament until March 24 to give the Liberal Party time to conduct its leadership race without immediately facing confidence votes. This move temporarily halts legislative business and resets political discussions as Canada prepares for the next federal election.
Trudeau acknowledged the challenges of his leadership, highlighting internal party struggles and the deep political polarization affecting Canada. Despite these internal divisions, he reaffirmed his commitment to Canada’s future, expressing confidence that a new leader would best represent Liberal Party values in the next election.
He also shared a personal moment, revealing that he discussed his decision with his family over dinner before making it public.
As the Liberal Party gears up for a leadership race, opposition leaders were quick to respond. Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre called for immediate action and an election, while NDP leader Jagmeet Singh demanded a complete overhaul of government leadership.
With Parliament on pause, all eyes are now on the next chapter in Canadian politics.
Trudeau’s successor will face significant challenges, including restoring party unity and preparing for the possibility of an early federal election.
Adding to this, Canada is grappling with economic uncertainty, compounded by the threat of tariffs from U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, which could put additional pressure on the Liberal government.
Trudeau will continue to serve as Prime Minister until a successor is chosen, marking the final phase of his nine-year tenure as Canada’s leader.
