Canada Global (Web News) The leader of a Canadian political party supporting Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced on Friday that he would back a motion of no-confidence, effectively ensuring the Liberals’ removal from power early next year.
Trudeau has faced growing calls to step down following Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland’s resignation on Monday over a policy disagreement.
What Happens if Trudeau Resigns?
If Prime Minister Justin Trudeau resigns, the Liberal Party would appoint an interim leader to take over as prime minister while arranging a special leadership convention. However, these conventions typically take months to organise. If an election is called before one takes place, the party would be led by an interim prime minister who wasn’t chosen by party members, a situation never before seen in Canada. The Liberals could opt for a shorter convention, but this could lead to protests from candidates who feel disadvantaged.
Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland could not be quickly appointed as permanent prime minister, as tradition dictates that interim leaders cannot run as candidates in the leadership race.
Can Trudeau Be Forced Out by His Liberal Party?
Unlike in Britain, where party leaders can be swiftly removed by parliamentary caucus, Canada’s Liberal leader is chosen through a special convention of party members. This means there is no formal process for removing Trudeau if he wishes to remain in power. However, if a significant number of cabinet members and legislators call for his resignation, Trudeau may deem his position untenable.
Can Trudeau Be Forced Out by Parliament?
In Canada, governments must maintain the confidence of the House of Commons. Votes on budgets and spending measures are considered confidence motions, and if the government loses one, it falls. An election campaign would immediately follow. The House of Commons is currently on winter break and will not return until January 27, making it likely that the earliest a confidence vote could occur would be in late February or March.
Is There Any Other Way Trudeau Can Be Forced Out?
The ultimate constitutional power in Canada lies with the Governor General, Mary Simon, who represents King Charles, the head of state. In theory, she could remove Trudeau, but this is highly unlikely. According to constitutional expert Philippe Lagasse, “The governor general won’t dismiss a prime minister who still holds the confidence of the Commons.”
How Might Trudeau Survive?
With a minority government, Trudeau relies on support from other parties for votes. While the left-leaning New Democrats have helped keep him in power, they are now vowing to bring him down. The leader of the Bloc Quebecois also stated on Friday that Trudeau would not survive a no-confidence vote if one were called in early 2025.
