Discussion on possible successors intensifies

Creating a major upheaval in Canadian politics, Justin Trudeau has resigned from the post of Prime Minister and leader of the Liberal Party. Trudeau announced his resignation at a press conference held at Rideau Cottage on Monday morning. According to reports, 131 out of 153 MPs of the Liberal Party had made their stand against him clear. He had to take this step due to increasing opposition within the party and the government. However, Trudeau may remain as interim prime minister until a new leader is selected.

Now the center of discussion has become who will replace Trudeau. The Liberal Party has a long list of potential contenders for the new leader, which includes many high-profile names.

Anita Anand of Indian origin: the main contender

Anita Anand, who holds the post of Minister of Transport and Internal Trade in the Trudeau government, is one of the most likely contenders for the post of Prime Minister.

• Political Experience: Anita is a former Defense Minister of Canada and is known for her effective work as the Minister of Public Services during the COVID-19 pandemic from 2019 to 2021.
• Family Background: His parents are of Indian origin—doctors hailing from Tamil Nadu and Punjab.
• Party Support: Anita is getting strong support for leadership in the Liberal Party.

George Chahal: Another contender of Indian origin

The name of Indian-origin MP George Chahal is also included among the possible successors.

• Political Career: George Chahal has done excellent work as a Calgary City Councillor. He is the Chairman of the Standing Committee on Natural Resources and the Sikh Caucus.
• Critical of Trudeau: Chahal had openly criticized Trudeau’s policies and called for a leadership change in the party.
• Support: A section of Liberal Party MPs has suggested his name.

Other major contenders

1. Chrystia Freeland:

Former Canadian Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland is considered the most high-profile contender to replace Trudeau.

• He had given a strong response to Donald Trump’s tariff threats.
• Freeland’s resignation was a major blow to the Trudeau government.

2. Dominic LeBlanc:

The name of Trudeau’s close aide and senior Liberal cabinet minister Dominic LeBlanc is also in discussion.

• He has deep political experience.
• At present he is holding the charge of Finance Minister.

3. Christy Clark:

Former British Columbia Premier Christy Clark is also in the race.

• He had expressed dissatisfaction against Trudeau’s leadership.
• 58-year-old Clark is a well-known face in Canadian politics.

4. Mark Carney:

Mark Carney, former governor of the Bank of Canada and Bank of England, has also emerged as a strong contender.

• His financial expertise makes him a unique candidate.
• However, he lacks political experience.

5. Francois-Philippe Champagne:

Champagne, an expert on business and international affairs, is also being seen as a potential leader.

• He could be the party’s priority to attract middle class voters.

6. Melanie Jolie:

Canada’s current Foreign Minister Melanie Jolie is also in the race.

• He has played a key role in handling Canada’s relations with India, China and Russia.
• However, his policies have also been criticized.

Liberal Party moving towards new direction

Justin Trudeau’s resignation has brought a big change for the Liberal Party. The party is now looking for a new leadership who can not only keep the party united but also win the trust of the Canadian people.