Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his resignation amid internal struggles and rising discontent over his leadership, spelling the end of his time in power.
Trudeau plans to step down after a new Liberal Party leader is chosen, with all three main opposition parties expressing intentions to push for a no-confidence vote when Parliament resumes.
Driving the news: The resignation follows the abrupt departure of Trudeau’s finance minister, suggesting growing turmoil within the government.
- Trudeau came to power in 2015 after 10 years of Conservative Party rule, initially receiving praise for returning the country to its liberal past. However, he became unpopular in recent years due to issues such as the increasing cost of living and immigration challenges.
State of play: The political upheaval in Canada coincides with challenging international relations, particularly concerning threatened tariffs by U.S. President-elect Donald Trump on Canadian goods.
- Trudeau’s government faced criticism for its economic priorities, with his former finance minister, Chrystia Freeland, resigning and questioning the affordability of certain policies in light of potential tariff wars.
- Trudeau had been preparing for a fourth term in the upcoming election, despite diminishing support evidenced by unfavorable poll numbers and recent losses in special elections.
