Trudeau resigns amid plummeting popularity, internal battles, and political paralysis in Canada; Freeland may succeed him.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced his resignation following a significant drop in popularity within his party and among the public.
The announcement came during a press conference where Trudeau addressed the challenges his government has faced. His decision was influenced by the recent resignation of Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland.
Trudeau has served as leader of the Liberal Party for just over nine years. During the press conference in Ottawa, he highlighted the internal battles within his party that have hindered progress.
He said that Canada deserves a real choice in the upcoming election and acknowledged that he could not provide the best option while fighting internal conflicts. Trudeau stated that he views himself as a “fighter” but recognised that parliament has been “paralysed” for months.
He has requested the suspension of parliament until March, pointing to the need for a political reset.
With Trudeau’s resignation, the Liberal Party will need to elect a new leader, who will subsequently become Canada’s next Prime Minister. The general election is required by late 2025, and Trudeau will remain in office until a successor is chosen.
Freeland is considered a potential frontrunner, alongside former Bank of Canada governor Mark Carney. Trudeau’s government has faced significant challenges, including trailing behind the Conservative Party in public opinion polls. Recent events, including the withdrawal of support from the New Democratic Party, have added to the pressure for his resignation.
