NEW DELHI: A resounding call to challenge Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government has swept across Canada, propelled by a petition for a vote of no confidence, gathering an unprecedented number of signatures.
The petition, e-4701, orchestrated by Melissa Outwater of Peterborough, Ontario, rapidly surged to over 3,00,000 signatures within a few days, establishing a historical record for petition participation since Trudeau’s assumption of office in 2015. “We the citizens of Canada have lost confidence in Justin Trudeau and the Liberal/NDP coalition,” the petition states.
Sponsored by opposition Conservative Party MP Michelle Ferreri, this groundbreaking petition highlights the prevailing sentiment of unhappiness among citizens toward Trudeau’s leadership and the perceived alignment between the Liberal Party and the New Democratic Party (NDP), despite the absence of a formal coalition.
It advocates for a motion of no confidence in the House of Commons, urging subsequent elections within 45 days, although the next scheduled elections are scheduled for October 2025.
The petition draws attention to an array of concerns plaguing Canada, including soaring housing costs, escalating inflation rates, and perceived discrepancies in immigration policies. It underscores a collective belief among signatories that the current government fails to adequately address the nation’s critical issues and isn’t acting in the best interests of its citizens.
Moreover, the petition sharply criticises Trudeau’s leadership, citing numerous ethics investigations and a purported tarnishing of Canada’s global reputation during his tenure. Recently, the ties between India and Canada have also hit a new low following the country’s support to Khalistani elements like Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.
Trudeau finds himself grappling with mounting challenges, as recent polls reflect a significant gap between his party and the Conservatives, placing the opposition comfortably within majority territory.
The widespread discontent mirrored in this petition resonates with public sentiment, as revealed in surveys such as the Ipsos poll for Global News, where nearly three-quarters of respondents, including a substantial portion of Liberal Party supporters, expressed a desire for Trudeau’s resignation.
This overwhelming outcry against the Prime Minister’s government illuminates a growing disenchantment with his leadership, signalling a critical juncture in Canadian politics that could potentially redefine the country’s future political landscape.