The Quebec government refuses to swear allegiance to the British king and promises a referendum on independence

The new leader of Quebec's independence movement and his government took office without swearing allegiance to King Charles III, marking a historic first. Paul Saint-Pierre Plamondon, head of the separatist Parti Québécois (PQ), aims to abolish the monarchy's presence in Quebec, viewing it as a relic of colonial rule. The ceremony was notably absent of the lieutenant governor, who confirmed ministerial appointments from her office. The PQ has pledged to hold a new independence referendum after Donald Trump's presidency ends in 2029, although they lack a parliamentary majority. The government also plans to address homelessness with a dedicated budget.