Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is poised to announce a Cabinet reshuffle on Friday in a bid to stabilise his government amidst growing calls for his resignation and mounting dissent within his Liberal Party.
Trudeau’s office confirmed on Thursday evening that he would attend a swearing-in ceremony for the newly reshuffled Cabinet and subsequently chair a meeting with its members.
This reshuffle comes in the wake of Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland’s sudden resignation on Monday, a development that has heightened criticism of Trudeau’s leadership. Freeland, in her resignation, voiced concerns over Trudeau’s handling of economic issues and his approach to managing potential trade conflicts with the incoming United States administration.
Ahmed Hussen, the Housing Minister, also stepped down shortly before Freeland’s departure, adding to the political turmoil surrounding Trudeau’s government.
The newly appointed Finance Minister, Dominic LeBlanc, has sought to quell concerns, asserting that the prime minister retains the “full support of his Cabinet.” However, LeBlanc also acknowledged the rising discontent within the Liberal Party.
“That’s a view they are expressing. The prime minister listened carefully when that view was expressed to him,” LeBlanc told reporters. “He listened, in some cases responded to specific things that were raised, and he said he would reflect carefully.”
Despite these assurances, Trudeau’s government faces increasing pressure to address pressing national and international challenges. Among these is U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s proposal to impose a 25% tariff on Canadian products once he assumes office next month.
LeBlanc emphasised the need to prioritise external challenges, stating, “We shouldn’t be looking inward. We shouldn’t be worrying about ourselves.” He revealed plans to meet with Tom Homan, Trump’s incoming border czar, after Christmas to discuss Canada’s border security strategy, which aims to avert the proposed tariffs.
Trudeau, who has governed Canada for nearly a decade, is grappling with widespread unpopularity over inflation and the rising cost of living. While there is no immediate mechanism for his removal, Trudeau could voluntarily resign or face a no-confidence vote in Parliament. Such a vote could potentially lead to an election that many believe would favour the opposition Conservative Party.
The political turbulence within Trudeau’s government has been compounded by Freeland’s resignation, which many view as a significant blow. Her departure came alongside sharp criticism of Trudeau’s economic policies and his approach to addressing Trump’s tariff threats.
As Trudeau prepares to unveil his new Cabinet, the reshuffle is seen as a critical attempt to restore stability and refocus his government on tackling Canada’s pressing challenges. However, the road ahead remains uncertain, with both internal dissent and external pressures continuing to mount.
