Justin Trudeau has announced his resignation as leader of Canada’s governing party after nearly ten years in the role of prime minister.

During a news conference in Ottawa, he stated that he would continue to serve as prime minister until a new leader is elected for the Liberal Party.

“This country deserves a real choice,” he emphasized, revealing that Parliament will be prorogued until March 24.

Trudeau has faced increasing pressure from within the party and beyond to step down. Potential candidates to succeed him as Liberal Party leader include former Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland and ex-central banker Mark Carney.