Justin Trudeau Resigns as Leader of Canada’s Liberal Party; Announces Plans to Remain as Prime Minister Until Successor is Chosen

After nearly a decade as Canada’s Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau has announced his resignation as the leader of the Liberal Party. In a press conference in Ottawa, Trudeau stated that he would remain in office as Prime Minister until a new leader is selected by his party, emphasizing that Canada “deserves a real choice” at the next election.

Trudeau’s resignation comes after growing pressure from within his party and across the political spectrum for him to step down. Despite his departure from the party leadership, he made it clear that he would continue to fulfill his duties as Prime Minister while the process of choosing his successor takes place. To facilitate the transition, Trudeau also announced that Parliament will be prorogued until March 24, 2025.

The announcement has sparked speculation over who will succeed Trudeau as the leader of the Liberal Party. Among the potential successors are former Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland, who has been a key figure in Trudeau’s government, and Mark Carney, a former Governor of the Bank of Canada and former Governor of the Bank of England. Both have been seen as prominent figures with the leadership potential to steer the party through its next chapter.

Trudeau’s leadership has faced increasing challenges in recent years, with critics from both inside and outside the party urging for a change. His decision to step down marks the end of an era, though his departure is expected to trigger a new wave of leadership dynamics within the Liberal Party ahead of the upcoming election.