Justin Trudeau announced he is resigning as Prime Minister of Canada ahead of elections this year after his top minister abruptly quit and criticised his handling of the budget

TORONTO (AP) — Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his resignation Monday after nearly a decade in power, bowing to rising discontent over his leadership and growing turmoil within his government signaled by the abrupt departure of his finance minister.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who said this month he would step aside as leader of the country and Liberal Party, said he won’t run in the election that must be held this year.

Canada's ruling Liberal Party is looking for a new leader to replace Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who announced on Jan. 6 he intended to step down. The Liberal Party will pick a new chief on March 9.

The pool of potential candidates to replace Prime Minister Justin Trudeau continues to dwindle down with both former B.C. premier Christy Clark and Innovation Minister François-Philippe Champagne announcing they won't seek the Liberal Party leadership.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says he won't run for re-election in his Montreal riding in the next general election.