The Prime Minister of Canada, Justin Trudeau, announced his resignation as leader of the Liberal Party and as Prime Minister this Monday. This decision paves the way for Canada to have a new leader, who will be selected by his party through a national election.
“My whole being has always told me to fight because I deeply care about Canadians,” Trudeau stated from Ottawa.
His resignation sets in motion an internal race to choose his successor, marking the end of almost a decade leading the party and the Canadian government.
Why did Justin Trudeau resign?
The Prime Minister stated that, although he considers himself a “fighter,” he has concluded that he is not the “best option” for the elections scheduled for October, which is why he decided to step aside.
Trudeau argued that his decision to retire could help reduce polarization, improve the functioning of the Canadian parliament, and steer the country toward more positive federal elections.
Additionally, the Prime Minister urged Canadian citizens to support whoever assumes the role of new leader of the Liberal Party, stating that the vision of Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre is bleak, and that someone more capable is needed to counter it.
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When will Canada’s new Prime Minister be elected?
The Canadian Parliament will remain prorogued until March 26, allowing the Liberal Party time to avoid a motion of censure and designate Trudeau’s successor.
This measure, which suspends all legislative activities temporarily, was last used in 2020, when Trudeau faced a serious scandal related to contracts awarded to a non-governmental organization.
Who is Justin Trudeau?
The 23rd Prime Minister of Canada, Justin Trudeau, was born on December 25, 1971. He is the son of the iconic former Prime Minister Pierre Elliott Trudeau and Margaret Trudeau, so he grew up in a politically influenced environment.
Trudeau studied at McGill University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in arts in 1994. Later, he completed an educational program at the University of British Columbia and worked as a teacher in Vancouver, teaching French, mathematics, and other subjects.
At the same time, he presided over Katimavik, a national youth service program, and was a board member of the Canadian Avalanche Foundation. Additionally, as a speaker, he toured Canada motivating young people to get involved in their community issues and to fulfill their roles as responsible citizens.
In 2002, he returned to Montreal, where he met Sophie Grégoire, a radio and television host from Quebec, and married her in 2005. The couple now has three children.
When did Justin Trudeau become Prime Minister?
On November 4, 2015, Justin Trudeau and the cabinet he selected were officially sworn in by Governor General David Johnston.
How long does the Prime Minister of Canada serve in office?
The Prime Minister serves at the pleasure of Her Majesty, which means there is no fixed term. Once appointed and sworn in by the Governor General, the Prime Minister remains in office until they decide to resign, are removed, or pass away.
Has Canada ever had a woman as Prime Minister?
Yes. Avril Phaedra Douglas “Kim” Campbell is a former politician, diplomat, lawyer, and author who served as the 19th Prime Minister of Canada from June to November 1993. She is the first and only woman to have held the position of Prime Minister in the country.
