François Legault resigned as premier of Quebec on Wednesday, marking a sudden end to his leadership of the province. Speaking at a hastily called press conference in Quebec City, Legault stated that serving as premier was "the greatest honour of my life."
Legault's resignation follows months of turmoil within the governing Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) party. His departure raises questions about the future direction of the party, which faces the possibility of significant losses in upcoming elections.
Legault, who founded the CAQ, led the party to consecutive majority governments beginning in 2018. His tenure was marked by significant policy changes, including controversial legislation on secularism and language. Bill 21, which prohibits public sector workers in positions of authority from wearing religious symbols, sparked considerable debate and legal challenges, with civil rights groups expressing alarm. Language policy under Legault aimed to strengthen the status of French in Quebec, leading to friction with some Anglophone communities.
The resignation leaves the CAQ in a leadership vacuum. Legault will remain in office until the party selects a new leader, a process that could take several months. The interim period presents both challenges and opportunities for the CAQ as it seeks to maintain stability and unity. The party's choice of a new leader will likely determine its prospects in the next provincial election.
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