• By Imran Zafar
  • Sat, 21 Dec 2024 08:38 AM (IST)
  • Source:Reuters

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau may face the end of his tenure early next year as the New Democratic Party (NDP), a key ally, announced plans to bring down his minority Liberal government. NDP leader Jagmeet Singh declared on Friday that he would present a formal motion of no-confidence when the House of Commons reconvenes on January 27, potentially triggering an election.

If opposition parties support the motion, Justin Trudeau's nine-year stint as prime minister could end. Polls over the past 18 months suggest the Liberals, weakened by voter dissatisfaction over high prices and a housing crisis, would face a crushing defeat by the opposition Conservatives.

Jagmeet Singh criticised Justin Trudeau for prioritising big business and vowed to act decisively. “No matter who leads the Liberal Party, this government’s time is up,” Singh stated. The Bloc Quebecois, another opposition party, pledged to back the motion, with leader Yves-Francois Blanchet affirming Trudeau’s government has no path to survival.

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Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre intensified the pressure, asserting that Trudeau lacks parliamentary confidence and calling for an expedited no-confidence vote. However, constitutional experts believe Governor General Mary Simon would reject the Conservatives' request to recall Parliament before January.

The crisis intensified after Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland’s resignation earlier this week. While facing growing calls to step down, Trudeau presided over a cabinet shuffle but avoided addressing reporters. Media reports indicate Trudeau’s office cancelled year-end interviews, fueling speculation about his future.

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Singh's decision to force a no-confidence vote poses risks for the NDP, as polls show their standing is also weak. Analysts, however, suggest that Singh aims to position his party as the primary alternative for centre-left voters who are disillusioned with the Liberals.

Adding to the turmoil, US President-elect Donald Trump's promise to impose a 25 per cent tariff on Canadian imports looms large. Provincial premiers, grappling with potential economic fallout, have expressed frustration over the federal government’s instability.

Justin Trudeau's options remain limited, with 20 Liberal legislators openly urging him to step aside. Even if he resigns, the Liberals will struggle to elect a permanent leader before the next election, forcing them to compete under an interim leader, a first in Canadian history.

(With agency inputs)