Canada: Trudeau sets to resign amid calls to step down as prime minister

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is reportedly weighing the decision to step down as leader of the Liberal Party, though no final resolution has been made, a source close to his thinking revealed on Sunday.

The Globe and Mail reported that Trudeau could announce his departure as early as Monday, following nine years at the helm of Canada’s government.

The move, if confirmed, would leave the ruling Liberal Party leaderless at a critical juncture, as polls predict a heavy defeat to the opposition Conservatives in an upcoming election, due by October.

Speculation around Trudeau’s future intensified after several Liberal legislators voiced their discontent over recent electoral losses and lackluster polling. The growing unrest has reportedly prompted emergency discussions among party members, with some urging Trudeau to step aside before a Wednesday caucus meeting.

Discussions about interim leadership have also surfaced, with Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc reportedly considered a potential temporary replacement. However, uncertainty looms over whether Trudeau would exit immediately or remain until a new leader is chosen.

Trudeau’s tenure has been marked by high points, including the 2015 victory that restored the Liberals to power with a progressive agenda emphasizing climate action and women’s rights. Yet, mounting challenges such as pandemic fallout, soaring prices, immigration pressures, and internal party rifts have eroded his standing.

The resignation of Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland in December, after disagreements over fiscal policy, further spotlighted internal tensions.

With growing pressure and diminishing support, Trudeau’s potential departure could signal a pivotal shift in Canada’s political landscape.