Igbo Radio

The political turbulence within Canada’s Liberal Party has intensified as Peter Fragiskatos, the Member of Parliament for London North Centre, publicly urged Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to step down. Fragiskatos joins a growing group of Liberal MPs who believe a leadership change is necessary in the wake of Chrystia Freeland's sudden resignation as finance minister and deputy prime minister, which he described as a “defining moment.”

Fragiskatos stated that he had hoped Trudeau would use the holiday break to reflect on his future. “The Christmas holidays have passed, and it’s now January 4,” he told CBC News. “Constituents deserve to know where I stand.”

Several Liberal MPs, including Ben Carr (Winnipeg South Centre), Robert Oliphant (Don Valley West), and Anthony Housefather (Mount Royal), have also voiced their belief that Trudeau’s leadership is no longer sustainable. According to Fragiskatos, “The number of MPs calling for the prime minister’s resignation has grown and is likely to increase.”

Caucus Pressure Intensifies
Reports indicate that regional Liberal caucuses in Atlantic Canada, Quebec, and Ontario are also pressing Trudeau to resign. Despite these calls, Fragiskatos maintained that Trudeau’s legacy could still be viewed favorably over time. “In the fullness of time, historians and analysts may recognize Trudeau’s contributions,” he said.

Fragiskatos expressed hope for an open leadership contest that would bring forward “good, thoughtful candidates who can offer bold visions for the country’s social and economic future.” He also cautioned opponents against underestimating the resilience of the Liberal Party. “This is one of the most successful political movements in Western democratic history,” he noted.

Liberal Caucus Meeting Scheduled
The growing calls for Trudeau’s resignation have prompted Liberal national caucus chair Brenda Shanahan to convene a meeting on January 8. The session, expected to last up to six hours, aims to address the party’s internal tensions and discuss the path forward.

Fragiskatos acknowledged uncertainty about Trudeau’s next move, emphasizing the importance of resolving the leadership question to unify the party. “There will be a chance to discuss what lies ahead,” he said.

Despite mounting pressure, some MPs speculate that Trudeau may attempt to remain in office, undeterred by internal dissent. However, with public dissatisfaction reflected in a 23-point Conservative lead in recent polls, Fragiskatos believes that a new leader with a compelling vision could “recapture the imagination of Canadians.”

“It will be a difficult challenge, but it’s not impossible,” Fragiskatos said, signaling his belief in the potential for the party to regain its footing through renewal and reform.