Ottawa, October 24 : Embattled Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who has been at the center of controversy after accusing India of involvement in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, is now facing backlash from within his own party. During a closed-door meeting on Wednesday, members of his Liberal Party of Canada called for Trudeau to step down as the party leader. Notably, Trudeau was present during the meeting.
According to a report from National Post, a letter calling for Trudeau’s resignation and the initiation of a leadership change was distributed as soon as the meeting began. Two members of parliament (MPs) confirmed the demand. While several MPs praised Trudeau’s accomplishments, the letter urged him to consider stepping down for the good of the party. One MP who chose not to sign the letter commented, "I don't think he has the courage to do it. He is strong-willed."
Sources quoted by the National Post stated that Trudeau spoke very little during the meeting. After the session, he addressed reporters briefly, saying, "The party remains strong and united." Several MPs exiting the meeting described the discussion as constructive but refrained from revealing further details.
New Brunswick MP Wayne Long openly called for Trudeau’s resignation. He stated that the meeting involved a healthy discussion, saying, "I’ve never seen such a candid and straightforward exchange between party members in the past nine years." Long emphasized the importance of respecting the confidentiality of the meeting but expressed hope that Trudeau would seriously consider the call for his resignation, stating that it was essential for Canada’s future well-being.
The meeting took place on Parliament Hill, where it is customary not to disclose details of such internal discussions to encourage open expression. Toronto MP Nathaniel Erskine-Smith noted that the calls for Trudeau’s resignation were multifaceted. Ontario MP Charles Sousa acknowledged that the Prime Minister understands the gravity of the challenges ahead. Calgary MP George Chahal reaffirmed his support for Trudeau, stating, "He is our leader, and he will remain so." Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland called the meeting "excellent" and urged for a half-percent reduction in interest rates to be considered.
The *National Post* report also mentioned that a "Code Red Petition" has been circulated among thousands of party supporters, urging them to participate in a secret vote to decide whether Trudeau should remain in office or resign. Liberal strategist Andrew Perez remarked that the leadership must take the MPs' demands seriously.
As Trudeau faces increasing internal and external pressures, his future as leader of the Liberal Party appears uncertain, with growing calls for him to step down for the benefit of both the party and the country.
