Liberal MPs Demand Leadership Change Amidst Trudeau's Defiance

Several members of the Liberal Party of Canada are pushing for a secret ballot vote regarding Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's leadership after he publicly dismissed calls for his resignation. This move comes after around two dozen MPs signed a letter requesting Trudeau step down by Monday, intending to give him the weekend to consider their concerns discussed in a private caucus meeting.

Following the meeting, Trudeau reaffirmed his desire to continue leading the party into the next election, which has not quelled the dissent among party members. MP Wayne Long expressed the need for a secret ballot, believing it would help resolve the leadership issue without fear of backlash. Another MP, Patrick Weiler, echoed this sentiment, stating an anonymous vote would enable members to freely express their opinions and potentially lead to greater support for a leadership change.

Despite the deadline for Trudeau's response passing, Long indicated that those advocating for change do not intend to disrupt parliamentary operations. He emphasized that their goal is not to destabilize the party, although there is disappointment regarding Trudeau's lack of thoughtful consideration of their concerns. Both Long and his colleagues are contemplating their own positions within the party, weighing the internal conflict against their loyalty to the Liberal Party.

The Trudeau government is facing further challenges, particularly as it must respond to demands from the Bloc Quebecois concerning two critical pieces of legislation related to seniors' benefits and trade management. Bloc Leader Yves-Francois Blanchet warned that if these bills do not receive favorable votes by Tuesday, he may initiate discussions with other opposition parties on potentially toppling the minority government. Meanwhile, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre criticized Trudeau for failing to negotiate effectively with the Bloc, suggesting that the opposition parties may need to collaborate to bring about a potential vote of no confidence in the government.