New Democratic Party leader Jagmeet Singh announced on Friday he intends to introduce a no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government when Canada’s House of Commons reconvenes January 27. The move could end Trudeau’s nine-year tenure and spark an early election.
Singh outlined his plans in an open letter, asserting, “We will put forward a clear motion of non-confidence in the next sitting of the House of Commons.” If all opposition parties unite in the vote, the minority Liberal government would fall, necessitating an election.
Trudeau, who is facing pressure after the sudden decision of his finance minister on Monday, will reshuffle his cabinet. His office has refused to comment on the announcement that Singh made today.
Polls taken over the last 18 months have shown a drop in popularity for the Liberals, voter fatigue and dissatisfaction that can suggest an even more serious loss in the next election. Officially, the vote is due by October 2025, but Singh’s promise has hinted at the possibility of the contest sooner.
Singh attacked Trudeau by not doing anything about pressing the issues, saying, “The Liberals don’t deserve another chance. That’s why the NDP will vote to bring this government down.”
For the NDP, sharing exactly the same progressive voter base with that of the Liberals, it has been accused that Trudeau has preferred corporate interests over citizenry needs. And though he keeps the Liberals in power so long, Singh’s declaration is a much-needed change in the plan of opposition.
A source close to Trudeau suggested that the prime minister plans to use the holiday break to consider his next steps but is unlikely to announce any decisions before January.
