Ottawa, Jan 06 (V7N) — Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced his resignation after nearly a decade in power. The 53-year-old leader made the announcement at a press conference outside his residence in Ottawa, as reported by multiple international media outlets, including CNN.

“I have informed my party and the governor that I have decided to step down as leader of the Liberal Party and as Prime Minister of Canada,” Trudeau stated. “I will hand over the reins when my successor is elected.”

The timeline for this transition remains uncertain, as the process could take a few days or several months. In the meantime, Trudeau has suspended the session of Parliament until March 24 to allow the Liberal Party to find a new leader and prepare for Canada’s upcoming federal election, slated for October this year.

According to Canadian law, the ruling party has 90 days to elect a new leader under such circumstances.

Trudeau has faced increasing pressure from within his party amid a surge in the popularity of the opposition Conservative Party in recent polls. This resignation comes as the Liberal Party seeks fresh leadership to counter growing challenges ahead of the next election.

First elected in 2015, Trudeau became Canada’s 23rd prime minister and has led the country through three election victories. His nearly 10-year tenure is marked by his status as Canada’s longest-serving prime minister and a leader whose popularity set unprecedented records.

With Trudeau stepping down, Canada enters a new political chapter, and the focus now shifts to the Liberal Party's selection of his successor and the political landscape ahead of the upcoming election.

END/MSS/AJ