Justin Trudeau resigns as Canadian Prime Minister

Srinagar, Jan 06: Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Monday announced his decision to step down as leader of the ruling Liberal Party after nine years in office. Despite his resignation as party leader, Trudeau will continue to serve as prime minister until the Liberals elect a new leader. The announcement took place during a press conference.

"We are at a critical moment in the world," he remarked highlighting the challenges of the Covid Pandemic and supporting Ukraine in the war started by Russia. "I am a fighter. I care deeply about Canadians, I will always be motivated by what's best for Canadians," he added.

"Over the holidays I have had long talks with my family to reflect on our future...Last night I told my kids about the decision that I am sharing with you. I resign as prime minister until the Liberals elect a new leader," he said as he informed that he has asked the Liberal party president to hold polls for the new leader.

Talking about the upcoming polls, he further remarked, "Canadians deserve a real choice in the next election. I can't be the best option for that election."

He noted that the Canadian Parliament has been "paralysed for months" after what he calls the longest session of a minority parliament in the country's history. Trudeau stated that Canada needs a new session of Parliament and the house will be pro-rogued until March 24.

The Canadian Prime Minister said he wished to change the country's electoral system, terming the inability to do it as "regret".

He mentioned his Liberal Party was elected for the third time in 2021 to strengthen the economy post-pandemic and advance Canada's interests, and said that is the job he and his party will continue to do.

The decision comes in the wake of mounting pressure from Liberal Party members and dismal polling results. According to BBC, Trudeau has faced increasing calls to resign since the summer, following the Liberals' historic by-election defeat in Toronto to the Conservative Party. Trudeau’s approval ratings plummeted to 22% as of December, marking the lowest since his tenure began in 2015.