Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced his resignation from both the posts of head of state and leader of the Liberal Party. Trudeau's decision comes after months of internal challenges and demands 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. This leader will then guide the Liberal Party in the upcoming general elections, where surveys suggest a challenging path for the ruling party. Now the question arises as to who is the new leader of the Liberal Party. 

These names have emerged in the list of major contenders for the next Prime Minister

One of these names is that of Anita Anand, who can become the PM of Canada. 57-year-old Oxford-educated academic Anita Anand has held several high-profile roles in Trudeau's cabinet, including Minister of Defence, Public Service and Procurement, and President of the Treasury Board.

Anita Anand, currently serving as Transport Minister, is known for her leadership during Canada's aid to Ukraine amid the Russia-Ukraine war. Born to a Tamil father and Punjabi mother, she was elected as an MP in 2019 and quickly joined Trudeau's administration.

Melanie Joly: A trusted ally of Trudeau

Melanie Joly, currently the foreign minister, 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. Joly, an Oxford graduate, has acknowledged that Trudeau personally encouraged her to enter politics.

Chrystia Freeland

Former journalist and Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland has resigned from her position in December 2024, surprising many in Canada. Chrystia Freeland, 56, had 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 the Bank of England, has emerged as a potential successor. Though 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, can also become the PM of Canada. Chahal has also made this request in a letter to his caucus colleagues last week.

Francois-Philippe Champagne

Francois-Philippe Champagne: Currently serving as Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, he has held various cabinet roles since entering politics in 2015. The 54-year-old has been part of Trudeau's key economic team and has also had a key role in overseas operations in international trade.