Justin Trudeau resigns as Canada’s PM, ending nearly a decade in power
Trudeau became a symbol of progressive ideals on the global stage, standing out as a fresh voice among world leaders.
KATHMANDU: After months of growing pressure from within his own party and the electorate, Justin Trudeau announced his resignation as Canada’s Prime Minister on Monday.
In front of Rideau Cottage, his residence for much of the last ten years, Trudeau cited internal divisions within the Liberal Party as a key factor in his decision.
“This country deserves a genuine choice in the next election,” Trudeau said. “If I’m consumed by internal battles, I cannot be the best option for Canadians.”
Though he will remain as prime minister until the Liberal Party selects a new leader, Trudeau requested a parliamentary suspension until March 24 to allow the party time to organize its leadership transition.
From Political Stardom to Polarization
Trudeau’s political journey began with immense promise. In 2015, the youthful, charismatic leader propelled the Liberals from obscurity to a parliamentary majority—a historic comeback for the party.
Trudeau became a symbol of progressive ideals on the global stage, standing out as a fresh voice among world leaders.
Now 53, Trudeau is the longest-serving leader in the G7. Yet his decade in office has seen his reputation transition from a hopeful reformer to a polarizing figure. Over time, his leadership faced significant challenges, including scandals, policy missteps, and a loss of public trust.
Achievements and Controversies
Trudeau highlighted his accomplishments, such as leading Canada through the COVID-19 pandemic, renegotiating a critical trade deal with the U.S. during the Trump administration, and implementing a widely praised child benefit program that reduced poverty.
However, his tenure was marred by ethical scandals, including breaches of federal conflict-of-interest laws during the SNC-Lavalin affair and criticism over his choice of a family-linked charity to administer a government program.
These controversies, coupled with missteps on immigration and ambitious but under-delivered promises, eroded public confidence.
By 2019, Trudeau’s government was reduced to minority status, forcing reliance on opposition parties to govern. A snap election in 2021 failed to regain ground.
A Party in Decline
The Liberals’ fortunes continued to wane. Rising inflation, a housing crisis, and public dissatisfaction with the government’s response to economic and social issues deepened frustrations. Special elections in traditionally Liberal strongholds delivered significant losses, amplifying calls for change.
Despite cabinet reshuffles and tax incentives, recent polls showed the Liberals at historic lows, with the Angus Reid Institute reporting their weakest support since 2014. Meanwhile, the opposition Conservatives, led by Pierre Poilievre, gained significant momentum.
The Final Blow
The turning point came in December with the resignation of Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland, a longtime ally. Freeland criticized Trudeau for failing to address urgent economic and political threats, marking the beginning of open dissent within the Liberal Party.
On Monday, Trudeau acknowledged the growing divisions: “Canada needs a reset. The temperature in politics has to come down.”
What’s Next?
Trudeau’s departure leaves the Liberals facing the difficult task of rebuilding without their most prominent figure.
Analysts suggest the party’s reliance on Trudeau’s personal brand—once a strength—has now become a liability.
The next election, due by October, could come sooner if opposition leaders push for a vote when Parliament resumes.
Poilievre’s Conservatives currently lead in polls, promising a significant challenge for the Liberals under new leadership.
As Trudeau steps aside, Canada faces pressing challenges, including economic uncertainty and strained international relations.
His legacy, defined by both consequential reforms and polarizing controversies, will undoubtedly remain a subject of debate for years to come.
