In Canada, there are ‘internal calls’ for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s resignation as the Liberal leader, with some dissident party MPs reportedly giving him an ultimatum until October 28 to decide on his future.
According to a report by CBC News, during the closed-door meeting, dissenting Liberal MPs conveyed their grievances to Trudeau, reflecting growing discontent within the party. This gathering was part of the weekly caucus meetings that take place while the House of Commons is in session. The Wednesday meeting on on Parliament Hill served as a platform for MPs to deliver their grievances to the prime minister in person.
At least 24 MPs signed an agreement to call on Trudeau to step down as Liberal leader, sources speaking to Radio-Canada said.
Citing two sources, CBC News reported that British Columbia MP Patrick Weiler, during the meeting, read out a separate document — which laid out an argument for Trudeau’s resignation.
As per the report, Weiler during his presentation, pointed out that the Democrats’ campaign in the United States gained after US President Joe Biden backed out of the presidential race. He suggested that the Liberals could see a similar rebound if Trudeau resigns as Liberal leader.
During Wednesday’s caucus meeting, MPs were reportedly given two minutes each to address and about 20 of them — none of them cabinet ministers — stood up to urge Trudeau to step aside before the next election. Citing sources, the report said some MPs also stood to voice support for the prime minister.
“The dissident MPs gave Trudeau until October 28 to decide on his future,” sources said, adding that the lawmakers, however, did not attack any consequences to that deadline.
Trudeau, reportedly, himself addressed the meeting, where he became “emotional when he talked about his children having to see “F— Trudeau” signs in public.” At the end of the meeting, the Prime Minister said he would reflect on the suggestions.
Despite the pressure on Trudeau, the call to quit or stay ultimately rests with him. In the past, the Canadian PM has said he wants to lead the Liberals into the next election, and it remains to be seen if Wednesday’s meeting will make him reconsider his decision.
