 "Canada's Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry Francois-Philippe Champagne speaks during Question Period on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, December 17, 2024. File Image- Reuters")
Federal Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry François-Philippe Champagne announced on Tuesday that he will not seek the Liberal leadership, narrowing the potential contenders to replace Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Former Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland and central banker Mark Carney are now seen as the leading candidates.
Champagne, seen as a leading contender, told the Toronto branch of the Canada Club that he would focus on his ministerial responsibilities for the rest of the government’s term.
”It was probably one of the most difficult decisions of my life but I think it’s the right one at the right time,” he said.
Trudeau said earlier this month he was stepping down and would stay in office until the party named a new leader, a decision that is due on March 9. Champagne is the fifth major cabinet minister to announce he will not take part in the race.
Polls show that the Liberals, who first came to power in November 2015, are set to lose the next election. The vote, which has to be held by Oct. 20, looks set to take place in May.
With inputs from agencies.