Ottawa [Canada]: Canadian New Democratic Party (NDP) leader Jagmeet Singh has announced his resignation as party chief following a significant defeat in Canada’s federal election. Singh not only lost his seat in Parliament but also oversaw the NDP’s failure to retain official party status, according to CTV News.
Singh, who represented Burnaby Central in British Columbia since 2019, finished third in his constituency, which was affected by electoral redistribution prior to the election. The NDP was unable to secure the minimum 12 seats required for official party recognition.
In a post on X after conceding defeat, Singh wrote:
“It’s been the honour of my life to lead the NDP and to represent the people of Burnaby Central. Congratulations to Prime Minister Carney, and to all the other leaders on a hard-fought campaign. I know this night is disappointing for New Democrats. I am disappointed that we could not win more seats. But I am not disappointed in our movement. I am hopeful for our Party. I know that we will always choose hope over fear.”
Jagmeet Singh has long been known for his pro-Khalistan stance, frequently voicing support for Khalistani activists based in Canada—an issue that has strained diplomatic ties with India.
Meanwhile, the Liberal Party, under Prime Minister Mark Carney, is projected to retain power, winning enough seats in the 45th federal election to form the next government. Carney succeeded Justin Trudeau, who stepped down earlier this year after losing the confidence of his party amid falling approval ratings.
This election took place amid increasing tension with the United States, with former President Donald Trump calling Canada the “51st state” and threatening tariff hikes.
An IPSOS poll conducted for Global News had shown the Liberal Party leading by four points going into the election. Prime Minister Carney had dissolved Parliament early to seek a fresh mandate following his appointment.
Unlike Trudeau, who had a tense relationship with India, particularly after alleging India’s involvement in the death of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, Carney has taken a conciliatory tone. He publicly offered condolences after the recent Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, signaling a desire to reset relations with New Delhi.