Canadian Prime Minister to Step Down in 2004

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Last updated at: (Beijing Time) Thursday, August 22, 2002

Canadian Prime Minister to Step Down in 2004

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Canadianrime Minister Jean Chretien, the longest-serving leader of a Western democracy, announced Wednesday amid an internal party challenge that he will leave office in 2004 instead of seeking a fourth consecutive term.

A gruff politician known for his legislative savvy, Chretien took office in 1993 and oversaw Canada's economic recovery while barely fending off a sovereignty referendum by Quebec.

With rival Paul Martin openly challenging his leadership of the Liberal Party, Chretien's popularity dipped as many in and outside his party complained he was clinging to power for too long.

Speaking at a hastily arranged news conference at a Liberal Party caucus meeting in Saguenay, Quebec, Chretien said he decided two years ago not to run for a fourth term but had wanted to wait longer before announcing his intentions.

With his wife, Aline, at his side, Chretien said he needed 18 months to complete the legislative agenda of his government, then would step down.

"I will not run again," he said. "I will fulfill my mandate and focus entirely on governing from now until February 2004. At which time my work will be done and at which time my successor will be chosen."

Some of his longtime supporters in the room had tears in their eyes as Chretien, 68, signaled the end of one of Canada's most successful political careers, dating back four decades.

He acknowledged that Martin's challenge to his party leadership, which has divided the Liberals and lowered his poll ratings, caused him to hasten the process.

Source: Agencies

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