Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced his resignation after nine years as the leader of the Liberal Party, citing internal party challenges and the need for fresh leadership ahead of the next federal election. Trudeau’s departure marks the end of a political era that began with high hopes for progressive change but ended with mounting public dissatisfaction and internal party fractures.
A Leadership Transition Underway
Speaking at a press conference in Ottawa, Trudeau said he would remain in office until the Liberal Party selects a new leader through a nationwide competitive process. Parliament will be prorogued until 24 March to allow the party to regroup and prepare for the next chapter.
“This country deserves a real choice in the next election,” Trudeau remarked. “If I’m having to fight internal battles, I cannot be the best option for Canadians.”
Sachit Mehra, president of the Liberal Party, expressed gratitude for Trudeau’s leadership, emphasising his contributions to key initiatives, including the Canada Child Benefit and expanded healthcare coverage. “Prime Minister Trudeau’s vision brought transformational progress to the country,” Mehra said in a statement.
Mounting Challenges and Resignations
Trudeau’s resignation comes in the wake of Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland’s abrupt departure last December. Freeland’s resignation letter cited frustration over Trudeau’s handling of U.S.-Canada relations and his response to President-elect Donald Trump’s proposed 25% tariffs on Canadian goods. The tariffs, warned by economists to have devastating potential for the Canadian economy, had become a significant source of tension.
In response to the U.S. pressure, Canada announced new border security measures, though these failed to diffuse the controversy. Trump’s subsequent social media posts, including a comment suggesting Canada should become “the 51st State” to avoid tariffs, only fueled the political unrest.
A Shifting Political Landscape
Since 2019, the Liberal Party has governed as a minority, relying on support from the New Democratic Party (NDP) and Bloc Québécois. However, following Freeland’s exit, these alliances weakened, leaving the Liberals politically vulnerable. Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre, who has maintained a commanding lead in polls, criticised Trudeau’s resignation, stating, “Every Liberal MP supported his agenda for nine years—they can’t now pretend they offer something new.”
The Conservatives have consistently called for early elections, citing public dissatisfaction with the Liberal government’s handling of economic issues, housing shortages, and rising costs of living.
Trudeau’s Legacy: Milestones and Controversies
Trudeau entered office in 2015 with a sweeping mandate for change, promoting a platform of inclusivity and progressivism under the banner of “Sunny Ways.” His administration’s achievements included legalising recreational cannabis, implementing a national carbon tax, and establishing a gender-equal cabinet. Trudeau also took steps toward reconciliation with Indigenous communities and introduced a tax-free child benefit that reduced child poverty rates.
However, Trudeau’s time in office was also marked by controversies, including the SNC-Lavalin affair, which involved allegations of political interference in a corruption case against a major Canadian firm. Additionally, images of Trudeau in brownface and blackface during his earlier years resurfaced, sparking public outcry and damaging his reputation.
The pandemic years brought further strain, with vaccine mandates and lockdown measures prompting fierce opposition and culminating in the Freedom Convoy protests in early 2022. The protests, which saw trucks blockading Ottawa for weeks, ended only after Trudeau invoked emergency powers—an unprecedented move in Canadian history.
Economic Pressures and Public Sentiment
As the country emerged from the pandemic, economic hardships, including rising housing costs and inflation, further eroded public support. By late 2024, Trudeau’s approval rating had plummeted to 22%, one of the lowest for a sitting prime minister in Canadian history.
Despite the criticism, some Canadians remain indifferent to his resignation. “I’m a carpenter—I get my wages, I pay the bills. It’s been OK,” said Hames Gamarra, a British Columbia resident. However, others, like Marise Cassivi, see the resignation as necessary, stating, “It’s the right thing.”
What’s Next for Canada?
The Liberal Party must now navigate the complex task of selecting a new leader capable of uniting the party and restoring public confidence. The race is expected to be highly competitive, with Mehra confirming that the Prime Minister’s Office will remain uninvolved in the selection process.
Opposition leaders, including Bloc Québécois leader Yves-François Blanchet, have suggested calling an early election once the new leader is chosen. The upcoming leadership race and subsequent election will be pivotal in shaping Canada’s political future as the country seeks stability amid uncertainty.
As Trudeau steps down, his departure prompts reflection on a legacy that saw both significant achievements and notable missteps. While his leadership ushered in historic reforms, it also faced criticism for policy miscalculations and public controversies. The next chapter for the Liberal Party—and for Canada—now rests on the horizon of new leadership.
