Photo credit: New York Times
Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is stepping down as Liberal leader.
In Parliamentary or Westminster systems of government, the leader of the governing party becomes the head of government: the Prime Minister.
CTV News reports that while Trudeau steps down as Liberal leader he will prorogue Parliament while the Liberal Party looks for another Party leader. However, Trudeau has declared his intention to remain as prime minister pending the choice of a new leader.
Trudeau said, “Last night over dinner, I told my kids about the decision I’m sharing with you today. 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 also met with Gov. Gen. Mary Simon this morning where he sought and got a prorogation of Parliament until March 24. this brings an end to the longest session of a minority Parliament in Canadian history.
Trudeau said, “As you all know, I’m a fighter. Every bone in my body has always told me to fight… I care deeply about this country.
“I truly feel that removing the contention around my own continued leadership is an opportunity to bring the temperature down, have a government that will focus on the complex issues that are coming forward in the following months.
“While the party gets to have a full national process that brings in people from right across the country, and makes a determination about the best person to carry the progressive Liberal standard into the next election.”
