 "Now who will take over the power of Canada? Names of 6 contenders at the top, including 2 Indians in the list")
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced his resignation as both head of state and leader of the Liberal Party. Trudeau’s decision comes after months of internal challenges and calls for his removal. Despite stepping down, he plans to remain in office until a new leader is elected.
Trudeau also confirmed that the Canadian Parliament will remain suspended until March 24, 2025, when a new party leader is expected to be elected. The leader will then lead the Liberal Party into the upcoming general election, where polls suggest a challenging path for the ruling party. Now in such a situation the question is being raised as to who is the new leader of the Liberal Party.
One of these names is Anita Anand, who can become the PM of Canada. Oxford-educated academic Anita Anand, 57, has held several high-profile roles in Trudeau’s cabinet, including minister of defence, public services and procurement and president of the Treasury Board.
Anita Anand, currently serving as Minister of Transport, is known for her leadership in providing Canadian aid to Ukraine during the Russo-Ukraine War. Born to a Tamil father and Punjabi mother, she was elected as an MP in 2019 and soon joined Trudeau’s administration.
Chrystia Freeland
Former journalist and Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland resigned from her post in December 2024, shocking many in Canada. Chrystia Freeland, 56, also served as finance minister. Freeland has been a central figure in the Liberal Party since 2013 and has played a key role in trade and economic policies.
Governor Mark Carney
Mark Carney, a 59-year-old Harvard graduate and former governor of the Bank of Canada and Bank of England, has emerged as a potential successor. Although Carney has never held public office, he has advised Trudeau on economic matters and climate policies.
George Chahal
Another Indian-origin leader, Alberta Liberal MP George Chahal, may also become Canada’s prime minister. Chahal has also made this request in a letter to his caucus colleagues last week.
Francois-Philippe Champagne
François-Philippe Champagne who currently serves as Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry has held various cabinet roles since entering politics in 2015. The 54-year-old has been part of Trudeau’s core economic team and has also played a key role in foreign affairs and international trade.
Melanie Jolie: Trudeau’s trusted ally
Melanie Joly, currently the Minister of Foreign Affairs, has been a key figure in Trudeau’s cabinet since 2021. The 45-year-old lawyer has shown strong leadership during international crises, including the Israel-Hamas conflict and the evacuation of Canadian citizens. Jolie, an Oxford graduate, has admitted that Trudeau personally encouraged her to enter politics.