Justin Trudeau resigns as Canada Prime Minister, Liberal Party leader citing ‘internal battles’

After hours of speculation, Justin Trudeau has stepped down as Canada's Prime Minister and Liberal Party leader on Monday (January 6). Trudeau announced his resignation during a press conference, marking an end to nearly a decade in power.

Trudeau said, "I intend to resign as party leader, as Prime Minister, after the party selects its next leader through a robust nationwide competitive process."

"This country deserves a real choice in the next election, and it has become clear to me that if I'm having to fight internal battles, I cannot be the best option in that election," he added.

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"A new Prime Minister and leader of the Liberal Party will carry its values and ideals into that next election. I'm excited to see the process unfold in the months ahead," Trudeau said.

I hoped Chrystia Freeland would continue as deputy PM: Trudeau

I thank Justin Trudeau for his years of service to Canada and Canadians. I wish him and his family the very best.

Talking about Chrystia Freeland, whoquit her role as Canada's Deputy Prime Minister, Trudeau said, "I had really hoped that she (Chrystia Freeland) would agree to continue as my deputy prime minister and take on one of the most important files that not just this government, but this country is facing. But she chose otherwise."

He added, “I'm a fighter. Every bone in my body has always told me to fight because I care deeply about Canadians. And the fact is, despite best efforts to work through it, Parliament has been paralysed for months.”

Trudeau announced that the Parliament will be suspended until March 24. As per a report by the Associated Press, he will stay on as PM until a new party leader is chosen.

This decision comes amid Trudeau's falling popularity in recent times, with his government surviving a series of no-confidence votes brought forth by the opposition with razor-thin margin.

Even members of his own Liberal party have publicly called for his resignation in the past.

Justin Trudeau took over as the Liberal Party leader in 2013. Sweeping to power in 2015, he helped the Liberals win in 2019 and 2021.

(With inputs from agencies)