As he prepares to step down, Canada's Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, delivered a tearful farewell speech to the nation, reflecting on his nearly ten-year tenure. During his heartfelt address, Trudeau expressed deep gratitude to Canadians for their support and pondered both the challenges and achievements encountered during his leadership.
"Serving this country has been the greatest honor of my life. Despite facing tough times, we always strived for the best for every citizen," he stated, his voice breaking with emotion.
Trudeau recounted the numerous challenges faced during his leadership, including Donald Trump's victory, a once-in-a-century pandemic, inflation crises, and the ongoing war in Ukraine. "These have been challenging times. This is the job I was elected to do, and it's the work I will continue until my last moment in office," Trudeau declared at a press conference in Ottawa.
It was notably the first public instance where the Canadian leader shed tears during a media briefing, as highlighted by international news outlets. "There's nothing a government can do that can't be undone by the next one unless Canadians are clear about the need to keep it going," he affirmed.
Throughout his administration, Trudeau introduced progressive policies such as the legalization of cannabis and initiatives promoting diversity and inclusion. However, his popularity waned in recent years due to economic issues, including rising inflation and housing costs, along with trade tensions with the United States. The election of Donald Trump intensified bilateral strains, particularly after Trump's threats of imposing 25% tariffs on Canadian imports and suggestions of annexing Canada as a state.
Amidst this backdrop, the Liberal Party of Canada is in the process of selecting Trudeau's successor. The leading candidates are former Bank of Canada Governor Mark Carney and former Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland. Internal polls suggest Carney holds a slight edge, concentrating his campaign on economic recovery and distancing from Trudeau's policies.
The new leader of the Liberal Party is expected to be announced on March 9, stepping into the role of Prime Minister at a pivotal time for the country, grappling with economic and diplomatic hurdles. The opposition has already expressed plans to propose a motion of no confidence once the new leader takes office, potentially leading to early elections.
Meanwhile, Trudeau prepares for his exit from political life, leaving behind a legacy that has evoked mixed reactions among Canadians.
Key Questions on Canada's Political Transition
Who are the candidates to succeed Justin Trudeau?
The main contenders are former Bank of Canada Governor Mark Carney and former Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland.
What challenges did Trudeau face during his tenure?
Trudeau's leadership was marked by challenges such as Donald Trump's presidency, a global pandemic, inflation crises, and the war in Ukraine.
What are the potential implications of the leadership change in Canada?
The new Prime Minister will face critical economic and diplomatic challenges, and may also encounter a motion of no confidence from the opposition, which could trigger early elections.