The separatist Parti Québécois (PQ) won Quebec's provincial election on Monday, returning to power after more than a decade. However, the party did not secure enough seats to form a majority government, falling short of the 64 seats required in the 127-member National Assembly.
The PQ, led by Paul St-Pierre Plamondon, has pledged to hold another referendum on independence from Canada. Plamondon stated he would not call a referendum until Donald Trump is no longer US President, citing political uncertainty and economic damage from tariffs.
The victory for the PQ could present a challenge for Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney's national unity strategy, particularly as he seeks a united front against US President Donald Trump's tariffs. Carney had previously stated he would work with Quebec's chosen premier.
The Quebec result comes two weeks before Albertans are due to vote on 19 October on whether to hold a referendum on separation from Canada.