THE ASIAN INDEPENDENT UK-
By: Surjit Singh Flora
Mark Carney has officially been elected as the new leader of the Liberal Party of Canada, securing a decisive first-ballot victory with 85.9% of the vote. The former Bank of Canada and Bank of England governor will soon be sworn in as Canada’s next prime minister, replacing Justin Trudeau, who announced his resignation earlier this year.
A Landslide Victory
Carney dominated the race, defeating
Chrystia Freeland (8%)—Former Deputy PM and Finance Minister
Karina Gould (3%)—Liberal House Leader
Frank Baylis (3%)—Businessman and former MP
More than 151,000 Liberal members voted in the leadership race, with Carney emerging as the clear choice to lead the party into the next federal election—an election that could be called within weeks.
Trudeau’s Final Address
Before the results were announced, Justin Trudeau gave an emotional farewell speech, reflecting on his nearly 12 years as Liberal leader.
“I am damn proud of what we’ve done,” Trudeau declared, thanking Canadians for their support through years of political and economic challenges.
Former Prime Minister Jean Chrétien also praised Trudeau’s leadership, highlighting Canada’s strong fiscal standing despite recent economic turbulence.
Mark Carney has officially been elected as the new leader of the Liberal Party of Canada, securing a decisive first-ballot victory with 85.9% of the vote. The former Bank of Canada and Bank of England governor will soon be sworn in as Canada’s next prime minister, replacing Justin Trudeau, who announced his resignation earlier this year.
Carney’s Challenge: Trade War and Election Uncertainty
Carney’s leadership begins at a critical moment for Canada, as the country navigates an unstable trade relationship with the U.S. and China.
His immediate priorities will include:
Handling Trump’s tariffs and managing Canada’s growing economic uncertainty.
Deciding whether to call an early election—a move that could capitalize on rising nationalist sentiment in Canada.
Securing a seat in the House of Commons, as Carney currently does not hold elected office.
Who is Mark Carney?
Born in the Northwest Territories and raised in Edmonton, Carney is an economist and former banker with experience handling global crises, including:
Leading Canada’s economy through the 2008 financial crash as Bank of Canada governor.
Serving as Bank of England governor during Brexit.
Advising the Trudeau government on Canada’s pandemic recovery in 2020.
In 2021, Carney officially aligned himself with the Liberal Party, raising millions in campaign funds and securing endorsements from key cabinet ministers.
What’s Next?
While Carney is now the Liberal leader, he must wait for Trudeau’s formal resignation before taking office. The transition process involves
Trudeau is visiting Governor General Mary Simon to submit his resignation.
Carney is being invited to Rideau Hall to be sworn in as prime minister.
Assembling a new cabinet and forming a government.
Will Canada Head to the Polls?
With an election expected sooner rather than later, Carney must quickly decide whether to:
Recall Parliament on March 24 and attempt to govern without a seat.
Dissolve Parliament and call an election, banking on the Liberals’ recent polling momentum.
As Canada faces rising economic uncertainty, trade disputes, and shifting political dynamics, Carney’s leadership will be tested from day one. Whether his economic expertise can translate into electoral success remains to be seen.
Brampton South MP Sonia Sidhu extended her congratulations to Mark Carney on his significant achievement as the newly elected leader of the Liberal Party of Canada and our forthcoming Prime Minister!
As we prepare to embark on a new era in Canada’s history. We shall advocate for Canada, safeguard employment, and establish the most robust economy within the G7. I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to further our collaboration for the benefit of the residents of Brampton South and all Canadians, she added.
Former Canadian PM Jean Chrétien urged Trump to ‘stop this nonsense’
Just prior to the announcement of the new Liberal leader on Sunday, former prime minister Jean Chrétien addressed the audience, delivering a critique of U.S. President Donald Trump regarding tariffs and the implications for Canada’s sovereignty.
Chrétien cautioned a gathering of Liberals in Ottawa that Canada’s “long and fruitful” relationship with the United States was deteriorating due to the ongoing hostility emanating from the Trump administration.
The former prime minister commended Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s administration and the provincial leaders of Canada for their recent leadership in confronting Trump’s threats.
He asserted that the government’s response is justified and suggested that Canadian administrations could take even more drastic measures, targeting Americans “where it really hurts” by implementing an export tax on oil and gas, potash, steel, aluminium, and electricity. He proposed that the funds could be allocated towards the development of infrastructure.
Chrétien stated that the “unjustified” duties will result in a detrimental outcome for both Canadians and Americans, emphasizing that, for Canada, this issue transcends mere financial considerations.
He encouraged Canadians to advocate for their nation, emphasizing that while Canada is a commendable neighbour, it also possesses a strong sense of pride and independence.
“As a fellow elder, I urge you to put an end to this foolishness,” Chrétien addressed the audience. “Canada will not become part of the United States.”
Chrétien asserted that Canada will continue to be “the best country in the world.” He expressed gratitude to Trump for bringing Canadians together “as never before” and humorously suggested that he ought to be awarded the Order of Canada.
“Throughout history, in spite of our camaraderie, we have encountered challenges, yet we consistently discovered means to resolve them,” he stated. “We have previously engaged in collaboration with the U.S., and I assure you that we will continue to do so moving forward.”
“We are entering a period of significant challenges, yet I remain optimistic. I firmly believe that the forthcoming prime minister will collaborate with provincial leaders, all political party heads in the House of Commons, and international allies to unite in addressing the issues that Mr. Trump is presenting on a global scale.”
Trump has issued threats to Canada regarding tariffs and “economic force” in an attempt to compel it to become the 51st state.
Following the implementation and subsequent suspension of 25 percent tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada, which caused significant market fluctuations due to fears of a trade war, Trump stated in a recorded interview with Fox News Channel’s “Sunday Morning Futures” that his intentions for more extensive “reciprocal” tariffs will commence on April 2.
Surjit Singh Flora is a veteran journalist and freelance writer based in Brampton, Canada
SURJIT SINGH FLORA
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