Justin Trudeau says he will resign as Canadian Prime Minister, leader of ruling Liberal Party

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced on Monday that he was stepping down as leader of the ruling Liberal Party, as well as Canada's Prime Minister as soon as the party chooses his successor.

"I intend to resign as party leader, as prime minister, after the party selects its next leader through a robust, nationwide competitive process. Last night, I asked the president of the Liberal Party to begin that process," Trudeau who has been in power for nine years, told reporters.

Justin Trudeau has announced his intention to step down as leader of Canada’s governing Liberal Party and as prime minister after the party chooses a successor. Picture Graphic News

The prime minister also announced proroguing the Canadian Parliament until March 24.

"This morning, I advised the governor general that we need a new session of Parliament. She has granted this request, and the House will now be prorogued until March 24," Trudeau said.

Trudeau became leader of the Liberal Party in 2013, in October 2015 he led the Liberals to power, but his popularity has been waning over the past couple of years.

Sputnik