A busy week ahead in Ottawa; Trudeau's leadership tested

Photo: Justin Tang The Canadian Press Prime Minister Justin Trudeau before a press conference in October 2024

Jim Bronskill – The Canadian Press and Laura Osman – The Canadian Press in Ottawa

Published at 12:19

• Canada

The House of Commons resumes after a week-long break on Monday, but it is unlikely to be business as usual.

MPs resumed an 11th day of debate on a Conservative request for documents on federal spending on green technology projects.

The question of privilege has brought the House to a virtual standstill as the Liberals attempt to maintain their grip on an increasingly divisive minority Parliament.

New Democratic Party (NDP) Leader Jagmeet Singh has written a letter to Commons Speaker Greg Fergus requesting an emergency debate on recent allegations of Indian interference.

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Last week, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police alleged that Indian government agents were linked to murder, extortion and coercion in Canada. Canada expelled six diplomats, and India expelled six Canadian diplomats in response.

In his letter, Singh said the “gravity of the situation and the danger it poses to all Canadians” warrants an emergency debate so parliamentarians can discuss potential measures to protect Canadians.

An NDP spokesperson said if Fergus approves the request, the debate could take place as early as Monday night.

See also

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• Editorial | Childishness and slip-ups

Trudeau’s leadership put to the test

On Wednesday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is expected to face the most serious challenge to his leadership yet.

According to multiple media reports, a group of Liberal MPs is preparing behind the scenes to confront Mr. Trudeau at the Liberal caucus meeting scheduled for Wednesday. They are reportedly looking to have a serious conversation with their leader about the Liberals’ declining popularity in the polls.

The precise strategy and scope of the movement to push Mr. Trudeau to resign remains unclear, although some MPs who spoke to The Canadian Press said the number of elected officials involved is significant.

Mr. Trudeau could get around both problems by deciding to prorogue Parliament, which would end the session and set the stage for a new throne speech.

Some political observers believe the move would give the Liberal Party enough time to organize a leadership race if Trudeau decides to resign.

The prime minister also plans to reshuffle his cabinet soon to replace four ministers who do not intend to seek re-election.

A general election is scheduled for October in Ottawa, but it could come sooner if the Liberals lose the confidence of the House.