In the face of mounting pressure and recent electoral setbacks, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has declared he will not resign as Liberal leader, even if his party loses the critical Montreal by-election scheduled for Monday. This declaration comes as Trudeau’s minority government is set to return to parliament without the support of the New Democratic Party (NDP).
In an interview with Montreal radio station CJAD 800, Trudeau made it clear that his position as leader remains unshaken, regardless of the by-election outcome. When pressed about the implications of a Liberal defeat, Trudeau acknowledged the need for increased effort to win over voters, emphasizing that a loss would necessitate a deeper commitment to regaining public support. He also launched a scathing critique of his Conservative rival, Pierre Poilievre, accusing him of intending to harm Canadians if elected.
“I’m not going anywhere,” Trudeau asserted. “I’ve got a fight to lead against people who want to hurt this country, who want to hurt our communities, and who want to take the country in directions that — quite frankly — are exactly the opposite of where the world needs to go.”
The Montreal by-election holds immense significance for the Liberals, as it takes place just months after a series of challenges to Trudeau’s leadership. The recent loss of a by-election in Toronto-St. Paul’s, a traditionally Liberal stronghold, to the Conservatives intensified calls for Trudeau’s resignation. Prominent figures within the Liberal Party, including former environment minister Catherine McKenna and former B.C. Premier Christy Clark, have publicly voiced concerns and even hinted at potential leadership bids.
This wave of dissent has created a high-stakes environment for the Liberals in the upcoming by-elections. “If we lose the Montreal one, people are going to be up in arms,” a Liberal MP, speaking on condition of anonymity, confided to a Canadian news outlet.
Adding further pressure, the NDP’s decision to withdraw from their alliance with the Liberals just last week has further diminished Trudeau’s support base. Despite this setback, Trudeau maintains an air of optimism, expressing excitement for the return to parliament.
The upcoming by-elections in Montreal, taking place on Monday, are poised to be a defining moment for Trudeau’s leadership. The outcome will determine the extent to which his position remains secure and reveal the future direction of Canadian politics.
