Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who has been at the helm of Canada’s government for nine years, is facing significant internal pressure to step down as the leader of the Liberal Party. This push was brought to light during a closed-door meeting of Liberal MPs on Parliament Hill, where 24 MPs reportedly signed an agreement calling for Trudeau’s resignation.
During the meeting, B.C. MP Patrick Weiler presented a document arguing for Trudeau’s resignation. Weiler drew parallels to the U.S. political scene, suggesting that the Liberal Party could experience a resurgence similar to the Democrats after President Joe Biden decided not to seek re-election. As per reports, the dissident MPs have given Trudeau until October 28 to decide his future, although no specific consequences were outlined if he chooses to stay.
Immigration Minister Marc Miller acknowledged the frustrations within the party, emphasizing the importance of addressing these issues openly. He downplayed the severity of the situation, expressing confidence in Trudeau’s ability to handle the truth.
Prince Edward Island MP Sean Casey, a vocal critic of Trudeau, expressed a desire for a secret ballot vote on Trudeau’s leadership. However, the Liberal caucus has not adopted the provisions of the 2015 Reform Act, which would allow for such a vote if 20% of caucus members signed a petition.
Parallelly, the discussion was also marred with the threat of the advantage that party infighting would give the opposition. Ontario MP Charles Sousa warned that internal dissent could benefit the Conservative Party, led by Pierre Poilievre. Sousa stressed the need for unity within the Liberal Party to effectively counter the opposition.
Poilievre has capitalized on the internal divisions, questioning Trudeau’s ability to govern amid growing discontent. He criticized Trudeau for being preoccupied with internal party conflicts rather than addressing key issues like immigration and housing.
Trudeau has survived previous challenges to his leadership, including a motion in parliament aimed at triggering an election. Despite leading under a minority government since 2019, Trudeau has managed to maintain power through a deal with the New Democratic Party (NDP). However, this deal collapsed in September when NDP leader Jagmeet Singh withdrew support, citing the Liberals’ perceived weaknesses.
According to reports, Trudeau’s approval ratings have significantly declined, from 63% when he was first elected in 2015 to 28% in June 2024. The Liberal Party also suffered losses in recent by-elections in Canada, adding to the pressure on Trudeau.
Strained relations with India
Trudeau is also dealing with strained relations with India over the Khalistan issue. Tensions escalated after Trudeau accused Indian agents of involvement in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil. This accusation has led to a deterioration in diplomatic ties, with Indian officials accusing Trudeau’s administration of neglecting the separatist problem for political gain. Trudeau also faced criticism from opposition for his allegations.
Canadian MP Chandra Arya has highlighted the issue of Khalistani extremism, noting that he required police protection to attend a recent Hindu event due to protests. Arya emphasized that Khalistani extremism is a Canadian problem that needs to be addressed domestically.
“Two weeks back, I could safely participate in a Hindu event in Edmonton only with the protection of RCMP officers, as a group of Khalistani protesters staged a disruptive demonstration against me. In Canada, we have long recognized and experienced the serious problem of Khalistani extremism,” Arya said.
“The sanctity of Canadian sovereignty is sacrosanct and any interference by foreign state actors within Canada, in any form, is unacceptable. Khalistani violent extremism is a Canadian problem and RCMP has said the national task force is focused on investigating it. We know that extremism and terrorism don’t recognize and are not limited to national borders” he added.
Manbilas Singh is a talented writer and journalist who focuses on the finer details in every story and values integrity above everything. A self-proclaimed sleuth, he strives to expose the fine print behind seemingly mundane activities and aims to uncover the truth that is hidden from the general public. In his time away from work, he is a music aficionado and a nerd who revels in video & board games, books and Formula 1.
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