OTTAWA (Reuters) – Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is expected to announce his decision to step down as Liberal leader on Monday, as reported by CBC News citing sources close to the matter. However, Trudeau will continue to serve in his current capacity until a successor is chosen. The announcement is scheduled to take place at a news conference on Monday at 10:45 am (1545 GMT).
Sources familiar with Trudeau’s intentions have indicated to Reuters that the Prime Minister is leaning towards stepping down. Should Trudeau resign immediately, the Liberal Party would be left without a permanent leader at a critical juncture, with polls indicating a significant advantage for the official opposition Conservatives in the upcoming election mandated to be held by late October.
On the other hand, delaying his departure to allow for a leadership contest within the party would potentially keep Trudeau in office for an extended period. This scenario unfolds as the incoming U.S. President, Donald Trump, has signaled intentions to impose tariffs that could have severe repercussions on Canada’s economy.
The mounting pressure on Trudeau to resign stems from a growing concern among Liberal legislators, underscored by a string of unfavorable polling results. The data suggests that the Liberals would face an uphill battle against the Conservatives, who have been out of power for nearly a decade.
This development comes amidst a tumultuous political landscape both domestically and internationally, with Trudeau navigating the challenges of a potential leadership transition while also addressing external threats to Canada’s economic stability.
(Reporting by Ismail Shakil in Ottawa; Editing by David Ljunggren)
