11 January, 2025: Transport Minister Anita Anand has officially announced her decision not to enter the race for the Liberal Party leadership or seek re-election as the Member of Parliament for Oakville. In a detailed statement shared on social media, Anand expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to serve Canadians and outlined her plans to return to her professional roots after the next federal election.
Honored to Serve Oakville and Canada
Anand began her statement by highlighting the privilege of serving as Oakville’s MP since 2019 and as a member of the federal cabinet. She reflected on her efforts to strengthen Canada and uphold public safety during her tenure, emphasizing the values instilled in her by her immigrant parents.
“I entered public life because I wanted to make a meaningful contribution to my community and country, a goal instilled in me by my parents,” Anand wrote. She described her time in public service as both challenging and rewarding, citing key achievements such as navigating supply chain disruptions during the pandemic, addressing sexual assault in the Canadian Armed Forces, and overseeing military aid to Ukraine.
Decision to Step Away
Anand stated that she will remain in her role as an MP and cabinet minister until the next election but will not contest re-election. Explaining her decision, she noted that Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s decision to step aside had prompted her to evaluate her own career path. She emphasized her desire to return to academia, research, and public policy analysis, where she built a distinguished career prior to entering politics.
“The joy and fulfillment that I take in our current work delayed this decision. But now that the Prime Minister has made his decision to move to his next chapter, I have determined the time is right for me to do the same,” Anand said.
Reflection on Her Pre-Political Career
Before her political career, Anand spent over 20 years as a lawyer and law professor, specializing in capital markets regulation and governance. She served as a faculty member at the University of Toronto, where she was a full professor and held an academic chair. Her entry into politics in 2019 marked a significant transition from academia to public service.
Gratitude to Constituents and Colleagues
Anand expressed heartfelt thanks to Prime Minister Trudeau for welcoming her to the Liberal team and entrusting her with significant cabinet responsibilities. She also thanked the people of Oakville for their unwavering support and trust, recalling how her election as a woman of Indian descent in Oakville was a historic achievement.
“Many people told me that a woman of Indian descent would not get elected in Oakville. Yet Oakville rallied behind me not once but twice,” she said, describing it as an honor she will hold in her heart forever.
Anand also extended gratitude to her fellow cabinet members, her Oakville and Ottawa teams, and Canadians who reached out to her with kind words of support.
A Legacy of Public Service
During her tenure, Anand played a crucial role in addressing some of Canada’s most pressing challenges. From managing pandemic-related supply chain issues to reinforcing transportation systems and delivering military aid to Ukraine, her leadership left a significant impact. As a lawyer, professor, and cabinet minister, her career reflects a commitment to serving her community and country.
Looking Ahead
Anand reiterated her dedication to completing her term as an MP and continuing to serve Canadians with integrity and dedication until the next election. She closed her statement by affirming her ongoing commitment to Canada and Oakville, even as she transitions back to her academic and professional pursuits.
“I will always be here for our Liberal team, for Oakville, and most of all for Canada,” she concluded.
Anita Anand’s decision marks the end of a remarkable chapter in public service, leaving a legacy of dedication, resilience, and meaningful contributions to Canadian society.
