Justin Trudeau to step down as Canada's prime minister

 

Justin Trudeau says he intends to step down as the Canada’s prime minister and leader of the country's governing party.

 

Addressing a news conference in Ottawa on Monday, Mr. Trudeau said he will stay on as prime minister until a new Liberal Party leader is chosen. 

 

"Last night over dinner, I told my kids about the decision that I'm sharing with you today. I intend to resign as party leader, as prime minister, after the party selects its next leader through a robust, nationwide, competitive process. Last night I asked the President of the Liberal Party to begin that process. This country deserves a real choice in the next election, and it has become clear to me that if I'm having to fight internal battles, I cannot be the best option in that election," he announced. 

 

Canada's parliament will be suspended until March 24 while a new leader is chosen.

 

Mr. Trudeau, leader of the Liberal Party for 11 years and prime minister for nine, was facing a mounting set of crises, from US president elect Donald Trump's tariff threats to the resignation of key allies and disastrous opinion polls.