Canada’s Prime Minister announced on Jan. 6 his intention to step down as the leader of the nation and as the leader of the Liberal Party of Canada.
Justin Trudeau, who has served in the role since 2015, has faced rising pressure from political opponents and members of his own party amid deeply declining popularity.
He said that he first told his children about his pending announcement over dinner on Sunday evening, followed by asking the President of the Liberal Party to begin the process of electing a new leader for the Liberals.
“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,” Trudeau said.
“I have always been driven by my love for Canada, by my desire to serve Canadians, and by what is in the best interest of Canadians and Canadians deserve a real choice in the next election.”
The Prime Minister also announced that Parliament would be prorogued until March 24 of this year.
“Parliament has been paralyzed for months after what has been the longest session of a minority Parliament in Canadian history. That’s why this morning, I advised the Governor General that we need a new session of parliament,” he said.
“She has granted this request.”
