Canadian PM Justin Trudeau resigns amid political turmoil

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced on Monday that he would step down as leader of the Liberal Party and as prime minister, following mounting pressure amid a political crisis.

Trudeau, who has faced plummeting popularity and internal challenges within his party, stated that parliament would be suspended until March 24, marking the next major development in the ongoing crisis.

The 53-year-old leader, who assumed office in November 2015, had previously won reelection twice and served as one of Canada's longest-serving prime ministers.

However, his popularity has waned significantly over the past two years due to rising public discontent over high costs of living and a housing shortage.

Recent polling data shows that the Liberals are poised for a heavy defeat in the next election, likely at the hands of the opposition Conservative Party.

“I intend to resign as party leader and prime minister after the party selects its next leader through a nationwide competitive process,” Trudeau announced in a press conference.

“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.”

Though Trudeau will remain in office until January 20—when U.S. President-elect Donald Trump is set to take office—his leadership has faced increasing scrutiny.

The political crisis deepened last month when Trudeau attempted to demote Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland after disagreements over his fiscal policies.

Freeland's resignation and a subsequent open letter accusing Trudeau of "political gimmicks" further accelerated calls for his departure.

Meanwhile, the Conservative Party, led by Pierre Poilievre, is positioned to challenge Trudeau’s leadership.