We are told that Paul Martin will resigning effective March 19. Under Liberal Party rules, that means a leadership convention must be held by March 19, 2007. Here's the release from the Libs:
Letter of Resignation of Paul Martin as Leader of the Liberal Party of Canada
Ottawa — The Liberal Party of Canada today released the following letter received today from the Rt. Hon. Paul Martin, P.C., M.P.:
March 16, 2006
Mr. Mike Eizenga
President
Liberal Party of Canada
81 Metcalfe Street, Suite 400
Ottawa, Ontario
K1P 6M8Mr. President,
As per our discussions, I wish to confirm my intention to resign as leader of the Liberal Party of Canada upon the formal call of the convention.
It has been an honour and my great pleasure to serve as leader and to have worked with so many dedicated volunteers, candidates, caucus members and party officials.
I look forward to continuing to serve and contribute to the party that I have always and will always regard as my second family.
Yours sincerely,
The Right Honourable Paul Martin