Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his decision to resign during a news conference outside Rideau Cottage on Monday. Citing internal conflicts within his Liberal Party, Trudeau stated that he would continue serving as Prime Minister and party leader until a new leader is selected.
“My friends, as you know, I am a fighter. Every instinct I have has always driven me to fight because I care deeply about Canadians and this country,” Trudeau said. “However, I intend to resign as Prime Minister and as party leader once the Liberal Party has chosen my successor through a competitive process.”
Trudeau’s decision follows mounting pressure from his caucus, with many Liberal MPs publicly and privately urging him to step aside. He emphasized that his resignation was necessary to allow Canadians a genuine alternative in the next election.
“This country deserves a real choice in the next election,” he said. “It has become evident that if I am preoccupied with internal battles, I cannot be the best option for Canadians.”
Earlier on Monday, Trudeau met with Governor General Mary Simon and received her approval to prorogue Parliament until March 24. He explained that this decision was aimed at resolving a legislative deadlock that has hindered progress in the House of Commons for months.
“Despite our best efforts, Parliament has been paralyzed for months after what has been the longest session of a minority government in Canadian history,” Trudeau said. “Prorogation is necessary to break the impasse.”
Proroguing Parliament will suspend its current session, ending all pending legislation and requiring the government to present a new throne speech when it resumes. It also temporarily eliminates the possibility of confidence votes.
Trudeau’s announcement comes amid growing discontent within the Liberal Party. His position weakened after Chrystia Freeland resigned as finance minister in December, prompting calls for his departure from MPs across Ontario, Quebec, and Atlantic Canada.
The Star previously reported that Trudeau was expected to disclose his plans before an emergency caucus meeting scheduled for Wednesday.
