Turmoil In Canada : Prime Minister Justin Trudeau Resigns Amidst Calling It’s Time To “Reset”

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Though it was a much-anticipated step, but no one expected it to be so early. Justin Trudeau stepping down as Canada’s Prime Minister marking the end of a tenure that spanned nearly nine years in office took everyone by surprise. In a packed press conference in Ottawa, the 53-year-old leader reflected on his achievements, challenges, and a singular regret that he said continues to weigh on him as the country approaches its next general election this year.

“If I have one regret, particularly as we approach this election – well, probably many regrets that I will think of. But I do wish we’d been able to change the way we elect our governments in this country so that people could simply choose a second choice, or a third choice on the same ballot,” Trudeau said.

His tenure is defined by ambitious immigration policies, global humanitarian commitments, and sharp criticisms from his rivals. For some Indian Canadians, Trudeau’s departure is “bittersweet”, adding that his immigration policies contributed to the challenges that ultimately led to his resignation.

Trudeau’s immigration policies have been both celebrated and criticised. His government’s ambitious targets, including plans to welcome over 500,000 permanent residents annually by 2025, were intended to address labour shortages and rejuvenate Canada’s ageing population. However, critics argue that the rapid influx of immigrants has strained housing, healthcare, and other public services. Though his approach to immigration was a defining feature of his leadership, his government’s initiatives, such as the resettlement of over 40,000 Syrian refugees and the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) program, highlighted Canada’s commitment to humanitarianism. The latter program allowed over 200,000 Ukrainians to seek temporary refuge in Canada.

Trudeau’s resignation also raises questions about the future of India-Canada relations, which have reached a historic low. The Indian-Canadian community is aware of the implications of strained diplomatic ties, particularly for immigrants and those maintaining cross-border connections. Tensions between New Delhi and Ottawa have been simmering since Trudeau’s allegation of Indian involvement in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Nijjar was shot outside a Sikh temple in Canada. India dismissed the accusation as “absurd.” Trudeau’s claims that India sponsors criminal activities have drawn sharp criticism both domestically and internationally.

Trudeau’s departure follows growing discontent within his party and a sharp decline in public support, compounded by recent political setbacks and political challenges. In a statement, Trudeau acknowledged the difficulties of recent years and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve as Prime Minister. “It’s time for a reset,” he told reporters outside his residence in Ottawa, adding that he had suspended Parliament until March 24. “I truly feel that removing the contention around my own continued leadership is an opportunity to bring the temperature down,” Trudeau added.

When he first led the Liberals to victory in 2015, Trudeau was seen as a promising leader, championing causes like climate action and gender equality. Being the son of former Prime Minister Pierre Elliott Trudeau, it helped him build a global profile and a strong mandate at home. His resignation comes as the Liberal Party grapples with sinking poll numbers, internal discord, and a resurgent Conservative opposition led by Pierre Poilievre. Trudeau acknowledged that the challenges facing his party and his leadership were insurmountable as Canada prepares for a critical election later this year.