Justin Trudeau resigns – TVA Gatineau

Justin Trudeau formalized his resignation as Prime Minister and leader of the Liberal Party of Canada Monday morning during a press conference held in front of his residence in Ottawa.

Following months marked by political challenges and internal tensions, the leader said he would step down once his successor was chosen by the party.

This announcement comes after a tumultuous period for the head of state, marked in particular by the recent resignation of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Chrystia Freeland.

In his speech, Trudeau noted that internal battles were preventing him from fully devoting himself to his role:

The country deserves a clear and real choice in the next elections. It has become clear to me that if I have to focus on internal battles, I cannot be the best option in these elections.

Justin Trudeau, resigning Prime Minister of Canada

To ensure a smooth transition, Justin Trudeau will remain Prime Minister until the election of a new Liberal leader, expected in the coming months.

At the same time, he asked the Governor General, Mary Simon, to prorogue Parliament until March 24, thus temporarily suspending parliamentary work while allowing elected officials to keep their seats.

This resignation paves the way for a leadership race that will redefine the future of the Liberal Party. Trudeau leaves after eight years in power, marking the end of an era in Canadian politics.

With information from Catherine Fortin