Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced his decision to step down once the Liberal Party selects a new leader.
Speaking at a press conference in Ottawa, the 53-year-old leader confirmed that Canada’s parliament will be suspended until March 24 to facilitate the transition.
According to CNN, he said: “Parliament has been paralyzed for months after what has been the longest session of a minority parliament in Canadian history.
This morning, I advised the Governor General that we need a new session of parliament. She has granted this request, and the House will now be prorogued until March 24.
I intend to resign as party leader, as prime minister, after the party selects its new leader.”
After leading the Liberal Party for 11 years and serving as prime minister for nine, Trudeau’s tenure has faced numerous challenges, including strained international relations, the resignation of key allies, and declining public support.
Reflecting on his time in office, Trudeau expressed regret over not reforming Canada’s electoral system.
“If there’s one thing I wish we had achieved, it’s giving Canadians the ability to rank their choices on the ballot. It’s something I will always think about, particularly as we approach this election,” he remarked.
While Trudeau will continue as a caretaker prime minister until a new leader is chosen, he has made it clear that his departure marks the beginning of a new chapter for both the Liberal Party and the nation.
