Key ally NDP pulls support: Trudeau government hanging by thread
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's government is on the brink of collapse after the New Democratic Party (NDP) withdrew its support. The left-leaning NDP, led by Jagmeet Singh, was instrumental in sustaining Trudeau's minority government. Singh has accused Trudeau's Liberals of being "too weak, too selfish and too devoted to corporate interests to fight for people."
Singh criticizes Trudeau's government
In a video message, Singh announced his intention to run for prime minister in the next election. He criticized Trudeau for succumbing to corporate greed and stated that he does not deserve another chance. "Big corporations and CEOs have had their governments. It's the people's time," Singh said. This decision marks a significant shift in Canadian politics, potentially threatening Trudeau's tenure as prime minister.
Trudeau's future hangs in balance after NDP withdrawal
The NDP's withdrawal leaves Trudeau with two options: resign or call early elections. He could weather this political storm if he manages to form a new alliance that would enable him to pass the budget and survive a vote of confidence in the House of Commons. Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre has renewed his demand for an early election, criticizing what he calls a Liberal-NDP coalition that is driving up prices for Canadians.
Conservatives to propose vote of confidence
The House of Commons is set to convene on September 16, giving the Conservatives an opportunity to propose a vote of confidence. Despite the NDP's withdrawal, Trudeau's Liberals could still survive if the NDP abstained from such a vote. A key moment for Trudeau's government will be its budget update later this year. If voted down by legislators, it would trigger a new election.
NDP's support crucial for Trudeau's social programs
Trudeau, who first took office in November 2015, has relied on the NDP's support to implement social programs aimed at addressing the cost of living. However, Singh has expressed growing dissatisfaction with Trudeau recently, particularly over what he perceives as the Liberals's failure to tackle high grocery store prices. Despite this, a statement from the NDP suggested that they might continue to back Trudeau on confidence votes if his position was at risk.
