Ottawa, Reuters – Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is reportedly contemplating his resignation, which could signify a considerable shift in the political landscape of the country. There is widespread speculation that Trudeau may announce his departure today, preceding a crucial national caucus meeting scheduled for Wednesday. Sources cited by The Globe and Mail suggest that Trudeau might also resign as the leader of the Liberal Party, a position he has held since 2013.

Anticipated Resignation Announcement

Insiders indicate that Trudeau's announcement may occur as soon as Monday, although the exact timing is still uncertain. The upcoming national caucus meeting, which will focus on the future of the party, is viewed as a pivotal moment for Trudeau to reveal this decision. While it remains unclear whether he will immediately vacate the Prime Minister’s office or serve until a new leader is elected, this decision could have significant implications for Canadian politics.

Liberal Party's Challenges and Electoral Concerns

Trudeau’s rumored resignation arises amid escalating concerns within the Liberal Party regarding their performance in the upcoming federal election. Recent polls indicate that the Liberals are trailing markedly behind the Conservatives, led by Pierre Poilievre. This gap has heightened concerns within the party, which is currently facing diminishing public support and internal obstacles.Upon assuming leadership of the Liberal Party in 2013, Trudeau took over a party in turmoil, previously occupying third place in the House of Commons. Through his leadership, the Liberals achieved a remarkable resurgence, securing a majority government in 2015. However, after nearly ten years in power, the party’s popularity has diminished, prompting calls for new leadership to revitalize its prospects.

Internal Deliberations and Temporary Leadership

Sources familiar with the situation have disclosed that Trudeau has been engaging in discussions with Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc regarding the possibility of him serving as an interim leader. LeBlanc could potentially assume the dual roles of interim leader and Prime Minister until the party designates a permanent successor. However, such a scenario poses logistical and political challenges, leaving party insiders divided on the practicality of this plan.

Strained Relations with India

Compounding Trudeau's difficulties is the government's strained relationship with India, which has come under scrutiny in recent months.The diplomatic tensions escalated following the assassination of Khalistani separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada. Trudeau’s government accused Indian intelligence agencies of being involved in Nijjar’s killing, a claim that New Delhi vehemently denied.The situation spiraled further when both countries expelled senior diplomats in retaliation. India subsequently suspended visa services for Canadian citizens, a move that exacerbated the already tense bilateral relations. Critics argue that Trudeau’s handling of the issue has damaged Canada’s global reputation and strained its ties with a key international partner.

Diplomatic Missteps and Domestic Backlash

Trudeau’s government has faced criticism for its perceived mishandling of diplomatic relations, not just with India but also with other key allies. Despite his efforts to strengthen ties with the United States, including a recent meeting with former U.S. President Donald Trump, these overtures have not yielded significant results.Domestically, Trudeau has been under fire for his inability to address pressing issues such as inflation, housing shortages, and public discontent over his government’s policies. Political analysts suggest that these factors have contributed to the Liberal Party’s declining popularity and Trudeau’s diminishing political capital.

Possibility of Early Elections

If Trudeau resigns, Canada could see a push for early elections, a move that would test the readiness of all political parties. The Conservatives, buoyed by strong polling numbers, are likely to capitalize on the Liberals’ leadership vacuum. Meanwhile, the New Democratic Party (NDP) and other smaller parties could also see an opportunity to increase their influence in Parliament.The Liberal Party, however, faces the daunting task of finding a successor capable of uniting the party and appealing to a broader electorate. Whether they opt for a seasoned political veteran or a fresh face to lead the party remains to be seen.

Trudeau's Legacy: A Mixed Bag

As Trudeau’s potential resignation looms, his legacy is likely to be a topic of intense debate. His tenure has been marked by significant achievements, including progressive policies on climate change, immigration, and social justice. However, his government has also faced criticism for ethical controversies, economic challenges, and declining public trust.Trudeau’s charismatic leadership and ability to connect with voters were instrumental in the Liberal Party’s resurgence in 2015. Yet, nearly a decade later, those qualities appear to have lost their luster, with many Canadians expressing fatigue over his leadership style and policies.