Calls for PM Trudeau resignation, including from Liberals, on the rise

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
29 Jun 2024 20:12
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Despite Monday's electoral setback, Trudeau reaffirms his commitment to lead the Liberals as he acknowledged the challenges ahead.

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Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau arrives at the Ukraine peace summit in Obbürgen, Switzerland, on Saturday, June 15, 2024. (AP)

Wayne Long, a backbench member of Parliament from Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's Liberal Party, has become the first sitting caucus member to publicly call for Trudeau's resignation following a disastrous by-election defeat, BBC reported.

In an email obtained by Canadian media outlets, Long stressed the need for new leadership "for the future of our party and for the good of our country."

He pointed to the clear message from voters who voiced a desire for change after Liberals lost a Toronto seat they had held since 1993 in Monday's by-election.

Long, representing a riding in New Brunswick since 2015, previously announced he would not seek re-election.

His call for leadership change within the Liberal Party has resonated, with Newfoundland MP Ken McDonald endorsing Long's sentiments in a reply-all response, stating, "Well said!"

Former Liberal politicians have also joined the chorus for Trudeau to step down.

Catherine McKenna, former environment minister under Trudeau, told reporters that the Liberal Party "isn't about one person. It's about the values it stands for and it's about improving the lives of Canadians."

"The prime minister has a legacy to be proud of, but it's time for new ideas, new energy and a new leader."

Former British Columbia Liberal Premier Christy Clark criticized Trudeau's ability to connect with voters, suggesting a loss of resonance and motivation among potential supporters.

Trudeau, she says, does "not have the pull with voters he once had, but more importantly, he isn't even able to motivate some of the people in the country who are most likely to vote for his party."

Trudeau, who has been Prime Minister since 2015, is facing mounting pressure as Canada's next election looms in October 2025.

Despite Monday's electoral setback, Trudeau reaffirmed his commitment to lead the Liberals as he acknowledged the challenges ahead amidst widespread discontent over cost-of-living issues and other concerns.

A recent Ipsos poll for Global News showed that a significant majority of Canadians, up to 68%, believe Trudeau should step down.

Trudeau has yet to address the media directly since the by-election defeat, as political observers closely monitor developments within the Liberal Party amid calls for change at its helm.