Audio By Carbonatix
Justin Trudeau has said he will step down as prime minister of Canada and leader of the governing Liberal party after nine years in office.
He announced his resignation in a speech outside his Rideau Cottage residence in Ottawa on Monday, speaking in both English and French.
Here is his full statement in English.
Every morning I've woken up as prime minister, I've been inspired by the resilience, generosity, and determination of Canadians. It is the driving force of every single day I have the privilege of serving in this office.
That is why, since 2015, I have fought for this country - for you - to strengthen and grow the middle class.
Why have we rallied to support each other through the pandemic, to advance reconciliation, to defend free trade on this continent, and to stand strong with Ukraine and our democracy?
And to fight climate change and get our economy ready for the future. We are at a critical moment in the world.
My friends, as you all know, I am a fighter.
Every bone in my body has always told me to fight because I care deeply about Canadians. I care deeply about this country. And I will always be motivated by what is in the best interest of Canadians.
And the fact is, despite best efforts to work through it, parliament has been paralysed for months after what has been the longest session of a minority parliament in Canadian history.
That's why, this morning I advised the governor general that we need a new session of parliament. She has granted this request and the house will now be prorogued until 24 March.
Over the holidays, I've also had a chance to reflect and have had long talks with my family about our future.
Throughout the course of my career, any success I have personally achieved has been because of their support and with their encouragement.
So last night over dinner, I told my kids about the decision that I'm sharing with you today.
I intend to resign as party leader, as prime minister, after the party selects its next leader through a robust, nationwide, competitive process. Last night I asked the president of the Liberal Party to begin that process.
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.
The Liberal Party of Canada is an important institution in the history of our great country and democracy. A new prime minister and leader of the Liberal Party will carry its values and ideals into that next election.
I am excited to see the process unfold in the months ahead.
We were elected for the third time in 2021 to strengthen the economy post-pandemic and advance Canada's interests in a complicated world, and that is exactly the job that I, and we, will continue to do for Canadians.
Latest Stories
-
How Asamoah Gyan reacted after Ghana was paired with England, Croatia, and Panama for the 2026 World Cup
3 hours -
Ghana Armed Forces opens 2025/2026 intake for military academy
3 hours -
Prime Insight: OSP vs. Kpebu and petitions to remove EC boss to dominate discussions this Saturday
3 hours -
Multimedia’s David Andoh selected among international journalists covering  PLANETech 2025 in Israel
4 hours -
Gov’t prioritising real action over slogans – Kwakye Ofosu
5 hours -
England are tough, but we can play against Ghana, Panama – Croatia coach reacts to World Cup draw
6 hours -
Togbe Afede urges Ghanaians to support made-in-Ghana products
6 hours -
We can beat anyone – Otto Addo reacts to World Cup draw
6 hours -
Chief Justice urges judicial staff to uphold compassion and professionalism
6 hours -
MTN Ghana partners open vegetable centre of excellence
7 hours -
GPL 2025/26: Mensah brace fires All Blacks to victory over Eleven Wonders
7 hours -
This Saturday on Newsfile: Petitions against the OSP, EC heads, and 2025 WASSCE results
8 hours -
Ambassador urges U.S. investors to prioritise land verification as Ghana courts more investment
8 hours -
Europe faces an expanding corruption crisis
8 hours -
Ghana’s Dr Bernard Appiah appointed to WHO Technical Advisory Group on alcohol and drug epidemiology
9 hours
