Justice Minister Arif Virani says he won’t seek re-election

Justice Minister and Attorney General of Canada, Arif Virani, says he won’t be seeking re-election in 2025, citing his desire to spend more time with his family.

“I have spoken with the Prime Minister and informed him that I will not be seeking re-election in 2025,” the Member of Parliament for Parkdale-High Park said in a statement posted to social media.

Virani said he came to the decision after considerable “soul searching,” citing the toll his life in politics has taken on his family.

“They have only known a life with their husband and dad in politics, frequently out of the city, sometimes out of the country,” he wrote.

“My family have given so much to allow me to pursue my dreams of serving not only our community, but our nation. It is my turn now to give back to the people I love the most.”

Please see my statement.

//

Veuillez voir mon annonce. pic.twitter.com/oXurE68PGk

— Arif Virani (@viraniarif) February 10, 2025

Virani has worn many hats during over a decade in public service.

“Along the way I have been given tremendous opportunities by the Prime Minister, serving as Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministers of Immigration, Heritage, Democratic Institutions, Justice and Trade, and now as Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, my dream job.”

He says he will continue on as MP for Parkdale-High Park until the next election.

The federal Liberals will choose their new leader on March 9.