Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is encountering significant pressure from members of his own Liberal Party, with several lawmakers urging him to decide whether to run for a fourth term or step down by October 28. Reports indicate that around 20 Liberal MPs have expressed that Trudeau “must leave by October 28” or face unspecified repercussions, according to news agency AP.
After a meeting with party members, Trudeau smiled and claimed the Liberals are “strong and united,” but the deadline set by his party colleagues suggests otherwise. Three MPs confirmed they were among the group that signed a letter urging him to resign before the next election.
Liberal MP Ken McDonald from Newfoundland, who has opted not to run for reelection, stated, “He has to start listening to the people.” McDonald noted that many colleagues planning to contest in the upcoming elections are anxious due to poor polling and declining party popularity.
The letter was reportedly presented to Trudeau during a three-hour caucus meeting, outlining arguments for why he should not seek a fourth term. Trudeau, who has previously indicated his intention to run again, did not take questions from reporters following the meeting. Notably, no Canadian prime minister has won four consecutive terms in over a century.
The Liberal Party recently experienced setbacks in special elections in Toronto and Montreal, traditionally strongholds, raising questions about Trudeau’s leadership. Despite the pressures, Trudeau has yet to sign the letter and stated he would consider the demands presented to him.
In the latest Nanos poll, the Liberals trail the opposition Conservatives 38% to 25%, with a sampling margin of error of ±3.1 percentage points.
This political turmoil occurs against a backdrop of strained Canada-India relations, following Trudeau’s allegations in September of potential Indian involvement in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India has dismissed these claims as “absurd.”
Last week, Trudeau referenced findings by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), claiming “clear and compelling evidence” of Indian agents engaging in activities threatening public safety, including clandestine operations and violent acts. He stated that attempts to collaborate with India had been unsuccessful.
In retaliation, India expelled Canada’s acting high commissioner and five other diplomats following the accusations.