Trudeau under pressure to resign as NDP withdraws support

Toronto: Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau faces mounting pressure to step down after National Democratic Party (NDP) leader Jagmeet Singh announced the withdrawal of external support for Trudeau’s minority Liberal government and tabled a no-confidence motion.

Sources reveal that 45 of the 152 Liberal MPs have signed a memorandum demanding Trudeau’s resignation, though the full list of signatories has not been disclosed. The move has intensified discussions within the Liberal Party about replacing Trudeau as leader.

Jagmeet Singh’s decision to sever ties with Trudeau has bolstered his standing within the NDP while increasing the likelihood of mid-term elections. Singh, who is set to complete six years as an MP on February 28, would become eligible for a lifetime pension at age 55 under Canadian parliamentary rules.

Critics, however, question the timing of Singh’s opposition, which came on the last day of the winter session of the House of Commons. The next session, traditionally convened after January 27, depends on the Speaker’s discretion.

Observers note that the current Governor General, Mary Simon, and the Speaker are regarded as Trudeau allies, which could influence proceedings. However, if the government fails to pass a finance bill, Trudeau would be compelled to resign. Singh has stated that the Liberal Party could select a new leader to retain NDP support but insists Trudeau must step aside.

Canada’s political uncertainty has begun to impact its economy. In the past four days, the Canadian dollar has depreciated by 3.5% in the international market, dropping from 61.5 to 59 Indian rupees, raising concerns among financial institutions. With a two-week Christmas holiday ahead, the government has until January 5 to mount a defense.