Justin Trudeau, Canada’s prime minister for nearly a decade, has announced his intention to step down after his Liberal Party selects a new leader. Speaking at a press conference in Ottawa, the 53-year-old leader stated, “I intend to resign as party leader, as prime minister, after the party selects its new leader.” He cited growing political gridlock and internal challenges as reasons for his decision.

Trudeau will remain in office until a new leader is chosen, with Parliament suspended until 24 March to facilitate the transition. His departure follows a series of crises, including waning public support, internal party disputes, and challenges posed by Donald Trump’s looming tariffs on Canadian goods. Opinion polls indicate the Liberals are heading for a crushing defeat in the next general election, which must take place by October 2025 but could be called earlier.

Read Also : IIT Bombay Launches Sustainability Policy Report

Growing Challenges and Resignation

Trudeau’s resignation comes amidst declining popularity and criticism from both political allies and opponents. He has led the Liberal Party since 2013, becoming prime minister in 2015 on a wave of optimism and promises of progressive change. However, recent byelection losses, poor polling, and the resignation of key figures like Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland have exacerbated his political troubles.

Freeland’s abrupt resignation in December, hours before presenting her fiscal update, intensified internal strife. Her scathing letter accused Trudeau of indulging in “costly political gimmicks” and failing to address Canada’s economic challenges. She also criticised pre-election policies such as tax rebates, which she described as unsustainable.

Read Also : UGC Revises Regulations For Appointment Of Teachers

Trudeau’s tenure has also been overshadowed by personal and political controversies. These include his family’s connections to a charity scandal, a vacation during the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation, and a confrontation with a steel worker highlighting Canadians’ economic discontent.

Reactions and Political Implications

Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre dismissed Trudeau’s resignation as superficial, stating, “Every Liberal MP supported Trudeau’s policies for nine years. Swapping faces won’t change their track record of failure.” New Democratic Party leader Jagmeet Singh echoed this sentiment, asserting the Liberals do not deserve another term regardless of who leads them.

Trudeau used his resignation announcement to criticise Poilievre’s vision for Canada. “Attacking journalists, backing off on climate change, and undermining diversity are not what Canadians need. We need ambition and optimism,” he said, contrasting his policies with Poilievre’s.

The Liberals now face the urgent task of selecting a new leader, with their national executive scheduled to meet this week. Trudeau’s decision to prorogue Parliament until March 2024 gives the party time to reorganise, but also delays legislative progress.

Economic Concerns and Trump’s Shadow

Trudeau’s resignation coincides with heightened economic anxiety as Donald Trump prepares to return to the US presidency. Trump has announced plans for 25% tariffs on Canadian imports, threatening to destabilise Canada’s economy further. Relations between the two leaders have been fraught, with Trump mocking Trudeau as the “governor” of a Canadian “state.”

Efforts by Trudeau to placate Trump, including policy concessions and a Florida visit, failed to ease tensions. Trudeau’s critics have seized on his perceived inability to navigate these challenges effectively.

Legacy and Future Challenges

Trudeau’s legacy as prime minister is a mix of progressive achievements and political controversies. He championed climate change action, reconciliation with Indigenous communities, and diversity. However, his later years in office were marked by rising inflation, housing crises, and a perceived disconnect from ordinary Canadians.

As the Liberals prepare for a leadership contest, polls show them trailing the Conservatives by over 20%. Analysts predict a Conservative majority in the next election, but the outcome could hinge on the new Liberal leader’s ability to revitalise the party.

Trudeau’s departure marks the end of an era in Canadian politics. His tenure, once celebrated for its optimism and inclusivity, now faces scrutiny as his party grapples with the challenges of renewal and the looming prospect of electoral defeat.