Former Liberal cabinet minister Chrystia Freeland has announced her resignation as a member of Parliament, marking a significant transition for the party. The prominent MP disclosed her decision to step down on Friday as she embarks on a new role advising Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. She stated her intention to depart from Canadian politics in the upcoming weeks while emphasizing her commitment to supporting Ukraine and advancing Canadian interests.
Freeland, who boasts Ukrainian heritage, held the position of deputy prime minister from 2019 to 2024 and served as the first female finance minister in Canada. Renowned for her staunch opposition to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, she represented the University-Rosedale constituency in downtown Toronto since 2015.
The Conservative party has been vocal in urging Freeland to resign immediately, expressing concerns about potential conflicts of interest. The party’s ethics critic, Michael Barrett, criticized Freeland for accepting a role advising a foreign government while serving as a member of Parliament. Canadian public officials are prohibited from certain activities under the Conflict of Interest Act, although there is no specific provision regarding advising foreign governments.
In response, Freeland confirmed consulting with the federal ethics commissioner and adhering to his guidance. Initially planning to resign before assuming the advisory role with Zelenskyy, the announcement was expedited by the Ukrainian side. Zelenskyy had extended the offer to Freeland during a visit on December 22, which she subsequently discussed with Prime Minister Mark Carney on December 24.
Upon her official resignation, a by-election will be triggered for the Toronto seat, traditionally considered a secure stronghold for the Liberals. Freeland, a prominent figure in the Liberal Party since Justin Trudeau’s ascent to power in 2015, played a pivotal role in various high-profile initiatives, including the renegotiation of the North American trade agreement and managing the nation’s finances during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Freeland’s office has confirmed her upcoming move to the United Kingdom to assume the role of CEO at the Rhodes Trust educational charity, effective July 1.