Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced he plans to step down once the Liberal Party selects a successor.

After leading the party since 2013 and serving as prime minister since 2015, Trudeau’s decision follows growing speculation and waning support from his caucus.

He shared the news outside his residence, stating he needed to focus on unifying the party for the next election.

Trudeau has called for a nationwide leadership race and requested Parliament be suspended until March 24, CBC has reported.

His departure will prompt a competitive race to find a challenger to Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre.

Written by B.C. Begley