A significant faction within Canada’s ruling Liberal Party is reportedly intensifying efforts to push Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to step down, following a series of disappointing byelection results in major urban centres. Sources have informed CBC News that dissatisfaction among Liberal MPs has reached a tipping point, prompting clandestine meetings among those discontented with the current leadership.
The unrest within the Liberal caucus has been escalating since the unexpected loss in the Toronto-St. Paul’s byelection in June. The recent defeat in Montreal further exacerbated these sentiments, leading to a more concerted push for leadership change. Reports indicate that at least 20 MPs have signed a document advocating for a shift in leadership, with some sources claiming that as many as 30 to 40 MPs could join the call.
The absence of Trudeau and his chief of staff, Katie Telford, at a recent summit in Asia provided disgruntled MPs with a chance to convene and discuss strategies moving forward. This gathering appears to have catalysed their efforts to formally express their desire for change within the party leadership.
The dissenting leaders have drafted a document described as a pledge rather than a conventional letter, aiming to create a binding commitment among MPs to support Trudeau’s resignation. This strategic move is viewed as a protective measure against potential backlash from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO). One MP involved in the initiative explained to CBC that the document acts as “an insurance policy,” stressing the need for decisive action before pressure from the PMO escalates.
Despite the growing sentiment for change, the number of MPs willing to sign the pledge may still fall short of the critical mass necessary to effectuate a leadership change. The Liberal Party currently holds 153 seats in Canada’s House of Commons, highlighting the challenges facing those seeking to mobilise dissent.
Trade Minister Mary Ng, who is travelling back to Canada alongside Trudeau from Laos, expressed disappointment upon learning of the MPs’ plans. Ng reaffirmed her confidence in the prime minister, reflecting a division within the party regarding the direction and leadership.
The context for this unrest is underscored by recent political developments, including the collapse of a parliamentary pact that had previously supported Trudeau’s government. Additionally, in September, Trudeau narrowly survived an attempt by the opposition Conservative Party to trigger an election, further complicating his position as leader.
As calls for Trudeau’s resignation grow louder among a faction of the Liberal Party, the coming days will be crucial in determining the trajectory of his leadership. The combination of disappointing electoral outcomes and increasing pressure from within the party creates a precarious situation for the prime minister. With the Liberal Party’s future at stake, how Trudeau and his administration respond to this internal dissent will likely shape the political landscape in Canada in the months to come.