Tarnished reputation What led to the resignation?

After almost a decade in power, Justin Trudeau has said he intends to step down as prime minister.

- Oliver Holmes and Leyland Cecco

The 53-year-old, who took office in 2015 on the promise of hope and revitalisation, has been under pressure to quit for months.

Why was he under pressure?

Once the rising star of global progressive politics, Trudeau saw his approval ratings drop to a new low of only 33% late last year. The same poll revealed widespread frustration with economic malaise. Like many leaders in the west, Trudeau suffered under record inflation and high food prices. A housing crisis, in which house prices in some areas have jumped by 30% or 40% in recent years, has deepened resentment toward the government.

Political scandals during a long tenure have not helped either. Trudeau was reprimanded in 2017 for accepting gifts including holidays and private helicopter flights.