Justin Trudeau announces resignation as Canadian Prime Minister

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced his intention to resign as leader of the Liberal Party and prime minister, marking the end of his nearly decade-long tenure in the country's highest office.

The decision, which Trudeau described as one made in the best interest of Canadians, comes as the Liberal Party gears up for the next federal election, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

Speaking in a televised address, Trudeau reflected on his time in office, highlighting his government's achievements since 2015, including strengthening the middle class, navigating the COVID-19 pandemic, advancing reconciliation with Indigenous peoples, standing firm in support of Ukraine, and combatting climate change.

"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 said.

He pointed to recent challenges in parliament, which he described as "paralysed for months," as a key factor in his decision. Trudeau announced that the current parliamentary session, the longest in minority government history, has been prorogued until March 24, following approval from Governor General Mary Simon.

Over the holidays, Trudeau said he had taken time to reflect and consult with his family, ultimately deciding that stepping aside was the right choice for both his party and the country. "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," he said.

Trudeau has asked the president of the Liberal Party of Canada to initiate a nationwide leadership race to select his successor. The timeline for the leadership process has yet to be confirmed.

As the leader of the Liberal Party since 2013, Trudeau has led the party to three electoral victories, including a majority win in 2015 and minority governments in 2019 and 2021. He acknowledged the challenges of leading during turbulent times, including the pandemic and a shifting global landscape, but expressed pride in his government's accomplishments.

"The Liberal Party of Canada is an important institution in the history of our great country and democracy. A new prime minister and leader of the Liberal Party will carry its values and ideals into that next election," he said.

Justin Trudeau, who became Liberal Party leader in 2013 during one of its lowest points, successfully revitalized the party, leading it to a majority government in 2015. His tenure as prime minister has been marked by a progressive agenda, including championing women’s rights, climate action, and navigating the country through the COVID-19 pandemic.

However, Trudeau’s leadership has faced increasing criticism in recent years. Rising inflation, a housing crisis exacerbated by immigration policies, and public dissatisfaction with government spending have eroded his support. Internal tensions within the party peaked in December when Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland, once a close ally, resigned after clashing with Trudeau over fiscal policies.

Speculation about Trudeau's resignation has intensified amid growing calls for new leadership and concerns over his ability to lead the party effectively into the next election. These developments come as Canada prepares to navigate significant geopolitical challenges, including managing relations with the incoming U.S. administration of President-elect Donald Trump.

Meanwhile, the Canadian opposition is already calling for early parliamentary elections to establish a stable government capable of working with the administration of President-elect Donald Trump over the next four years.

By Vugar Khalilov