Federal Liberals to announce new leader on March 9

Liberal Party to Choose Next Leader and Prime Minister on March 9

The Liberal Party announced on Thursday night that it will select its next leader — who will also serve as Canada’s prime minister — on March 9.

This decision followed a series of meetings after Justin Trudeau's resignation as prime minister. The party’s national council finalized the date during a session held Thursday night.

Leadership Contest Rules
Sources revealed that the entry fee for leadership candidates has been set at $350,000, a sharp increase from the $75,000 fee in the previous leadership race. Prospective candidates must declare their intentions and pay the fee by January 23, while voters have until January 27 to register.

Revised Voting Criteria
The party has introduced changes to voting eligibility, restricting it to Canadian citizens and permanent residents aged 14 and above. This marks a departure from the earlier practice of allowing non-Canadian residents to participate in party nominations and leadership contests, a move that had raised concerns about potential foreign interference. Several party members had advocated for stricter measures to prevent such risks.

Potential Candidates
Several prominent figures are considering entering the race, including the ministers for foreign affairs, innovation, natural resources, and employment. While these cabinet members await further clarity on the rules, the party executive has not specified if they must step down from their current roles to contest.

Former central banker Mark Carney has expressed interest, and other notable figures, such as a former finance minister, a former premier, and the current House Leader, are reportedly rallying supporters. Ottawa MP Chandra Arya and former Montreal MP Frank Baylis have already confirmed their candidacies.

Transition Period for New Leader
The chosen leader will have limited time to prepare before the House of Commons reconvenes on March 24. Governor General Mary Simon has prorogued Parliament, offering the new prime minister just a few weeks for the transition.