Jagmeet Singh, leader of Canada’s New Democratic Party (NDP), has ended his party’s support for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s Liberal government, BBC reports. Singh announced on social media that he has “ripped up” the agreement that had kept Trudeau’s minority government in power for the past two and a half years.
The “supply and confidence” deal, made in March 2022, meant the NDP would support the Liberals in key votes, while the Liberals agreed to back some NDP priorities like dental care for low-income families and a national pharmacare program. This arrangement was not a coalition but a promise of support for specific issues.
Singh’s decision to withdraw support does not immediately trigger an election but makes one more likely before the scheduled October 2025 date. He said that if confidence votes are lost in parliament, a general election could be on the horizon. Singh criticized the Liberals as “too weak” and “selfish,” suggesting they have failed to meet the needs of Canadians.
Trudeau, responding to the news, expressed confidence in his ability to keep parliament functioning and hopes for no election before the fall of next year. He aims to continue focusing on his government’s agenda despite the political uncertainty.
The move comes as frustration among Canadian voters grows over rising inflation and housing affordability issues. Polls show the Liberals trailing behind the Conservative party, which has criticized Singh’s decision as a mere “stunt.”
Singh’s departure from the agreement follows dissatisfaction with the Liberals’ handling of recent issues, including the response to a rail strike. The end of this agreement marks a significant shift in Canadian politics, potentially setting the stage for earlier elections.
Credit : BBC
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cm2n00e3z87o