A day after other leaders voiced their thoughts on the Prime Minister’s announcement that he is stepping down, Saskatchewan’s Premier says in a written statement that he reiterates his call for an immediate election so Canadians may choose who will represent them. Scott Moe suggests suspending parliament while the Liberals choose a new leader doesn’t give Canadians “the choice they desire or deserve”.
He adds that the Saskatchewan government is focused on addressing affordability, increased market access, investment attraction and continuing to engage with the United States to ensure border security for both countries.
On Monday, the leaders of the NDP and Conservative Parties used the opportunity to promote their own parties as the next option in a federal election. On social media, NDP leader Jagmeet Singh says Prime Minister Justin Trudeau let everyone down on the cost of housing and groceries, and on fixing health care, while the Conservatives are jumping at the opportunity to take more from the middle class and give it to CEOs. Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre is calling for an election now rather than proroguing parliament. He suggests Canadians shouldn’t have to live in limbo while the Liberals fight each for power.
Alberta’s Premier Danielle Smith agrees with Poilievre and Premier Moe. She too suggests it’s time for an election now to deal with Canada/U.S. relations, considering President-Elect Donald Trump’s inauguration coming up, and his threats of 25 per cent tariffs for Canadian products. Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew is also concerned with Canada’s relationship with the United States and is urging Trudeau, while he is still in office, to engage with the country’s Premiers to discuss the plans for dealing with the new administration.
Provincial NDP leader Carla Beck’s written statement says she shares the deep frustration of Saskatchewan residents and Canadians that internal politics has taken centre stage over the need for a coordinated and united response to the challenges facing this province and the country.She points to the example of U.S. President-Elect Donald Trump’s threat of 25 per cent tariffs. Beck has written a letter to Premier Scott Moe offering the support of the Saskatchewan NDP Caucus to protect Saskatchewan’s economy, saysing “We must put aside partisan interests and focus on our province.”
The Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations is calling for a strong First Nations mandate in the new leadership. The FSIN states in a news release that there is urgency to ensure the incoming leader prioritizes reconciliation, nation-to-nation relationships, and fulfilling commitments made by the Liberal government. As the political landscape changes, the FSIN reminds all political parties and potential leaders of their responsibility to uphold the principles of reconciliation and justice. Chief Bobby Cameron says the next Prime Minister must not only carry forward the commitments made but also ensure First Nations Peoples are at tables where they have an integral and key part in building a better Canada.
