Canada’s Deputy Prime Minister, Chrystia Freeland, has announced her resignation from her position, dealing a major blow to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s hold on power.
Freeland, who has served as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance since 2019, cited personal reasons for her decision to step down. In a statement, she said, “As much as I have loved my time in government, I have come to the difficult decision that it is time for me to step back and focus on my family and personal life.”
Freeland’s resignation comes at a crucial time for Trudeau’s government, which has been facing mounting criticism over its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as ongoing economic challenges. With Freeland’s departure, Trudeau will now have to find a replacement for one of his most trusted and influential cabinet members.
Freeland, a former journalist and author, was seen as a key figure in Trudeau’s government, playing a central role in negotiating the new NAFTA agreement with the United States and Mexico, as well as overseeing the government’s response to the economic fallout from the pandemic.
Her resignation has raised questions about the stability of Trudeau’s government, which currently holds a minority in parliament. With Freeland’s departure, Trudeau will need to find a replacement who can help maintain the government’s agenda and hold the support of key stakeholders.
In a statement, Trudeau thanked Freeland for her service and said he respected her decision to step down. He also expressed confidence in his government’s ability to continue its work, despite the loss of such a key figure.
It remains to be seen how Trudeau will navigate this latest challenge to his government’s stability. With Freeland’s resignation, he will need to find a replacement who can help maintain the government’s agenda and hold the support of key stakeholders. The coming weeks will be crucial for Trudeau as he seeks to ensure his hold on power in the face of growing challenges and uncertainties.