'Stepping down as PM': Trudeau out after 9 yrs

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his resignation on Monday in the face of rising discontent over his leadership, and after the abrupt departure of his finance minister signaled growing turmoil within his government, bringing to an end a tenure that began in October 2015.

- Anirudh Bhattacharyya

TORONTO: Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his resignation on Monday in the face of rising discontent over his leadership, and after the abrupt departure of his finance minister signaled growing turmoil within his government, bringing to an end a tenure that began in October 2015.

"I intend to resign as leader of the Liberal Party, and as Prime Minister after the party elects its next leader following a robust process," he announced.

Immediate elections, as demanded by the opposition, are not likely as Trudeau has sought that Parliament be prorogued till March 24, obviating the possibility of facing a no-confidence vote in the session that was scheduled to commence on January 27.