Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is facing a major political setback after the New Democratic Party (NDP), led by Jagmeet Singh, withdrew its support from his minority government. The NDP had been essential in helping Trudeau maintain power. However, Singh recently terminated their 2022 agreement, citing dissatisfaction with Trudeau’s response to critical issues like rising grocery prices and corporate influence.
Despite the NDP’s withdrawal, Trudeau has ruled out early elections and remains committed to advancing social programs. In a social media video, Singh expressed disappointment with the prime minister, accusing him of prioritizing corporate interests over the public’s needs. He also confirmed his intention to run for prime minister in the next election.
Trudeau, who has been in power since 2015, is under growing pressure from the opposition Conservatives, who have criticized him for high inflation and a housing crisis. With the NDP pulling out of the “supply and confidence” deal, Trudeau must now rely on support from opposition lawmakers to pass confidence votes when parliament resumes on September 16. The Conservatives may push for a no-confidence vote, though the NDP could potentially abstain, allowing Trudeau’s government to survive.
The original 2022 deal between the NDP and the Liberals promised to keep Trudeau in power until mid-2025 in exchange for progress on NDP priorities like dental care for low-income families and a national pharmaceutical care plan. However, internal frustrations within the NDP leadership led to their withdrawal.
While this NDP withdrawal does not immediately lead to an election, Trudeau’s government now faces a more fragile position in parliament. Singh has indicated he may still support the Liberals on specific confidence measures, giving Trudeau room to navigate the political landscape. Meanwhile, Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre criticized Singh’s move, urging him to commit to a total no-confidence vote.
Who Is Jagmeet Singh?
Jagmeet Singh, crucial in supporting Trudeau’s government, has led the NDP since 2017, succeeding Tom Mulcair. He is the first person from a visible minority group to head a major Canadian federal political party. Before entering federal politics, Singh served as a Provincial Parliament (MPP) member in Ontario from 2011 to 2017. He later became the MP for Burnaby South in British Columbia in 2019.
Singh advocates for progressive policies such as affordable housing, climate action, healthcare reform, and addressing income inequality. Under his leadership, the NDP has also championed racial justice, indigenous rights, and the fight against systemic racism in Canada. Singh partnered with Trudeau in 2021 to help form a minority government after being a rival.
Singh married fashion designer Gurkiran Kaur in 2018 and welcomed their first child in 2022.
Singh’s Frustrations With Trudeau’s Govt And NDP Future Ambitions
Although Singh played a pivotal role in Trudeau’s government, his frustration with the prime minister has grown. In a viral video, Singh criticized Trudeau for the rising cost of groceries and accused him of yielding to corporate greed. This video has been interpreted as a signal of Singh’s potential bid for the prime ministership, as he remarked that Trudeau’s government no longer deserved another chance.
Controversies Surrounding Singh’s Support for Khalistan
Jagmeet Singh has been embroiled in controversy due to his vocal support for the Khalistan movement, which has led to accusations that Trudeau’s government supported Khalistani elements within Canada. With Trudeau relying on Singh’s backing, he faced criticism for not challenging Singh’s anti-India stance.
Singh’s links to Khalistani leaders became apparent after he was elected NDP leader. This link emerged most notably when journalist Terry Milewski questioned him about Sikh gurdwaras in Canada displaying posters of Talwinder Singh Parmar, the mastermind behind the 1985 Air India bombing. Singh also defended Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar after Trudeau accused India of being involved in his killing. In response, Singh issued a strong statement, vowing to pursue justice and hold Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi accountable.
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