New Canadian PM appoints cabinet with many new faces and big hopes

0 Comments | AFP, December, 2003

OTTAWA (AFP) — Freshly inaugurated Canadian Prime Minister Paul Martin hit the ground running, announcing naming a cabinet with 20 new faces and dumping some long-time party faithfuls on the way.

Admitting his program was ambitious, Martin vowed to clean up the government's image -- after a series of scandals surrounded several former ministers, improve relations with the United States and maintain a tight fiscal policy.

At a press conference, Martin deftly sidestepped a question on when he will call a general election. Most insiders, including members of Martin's own team, believe the next election will be held in April or May.

That gives Martin just four or five months to make his own mark politically as he leads his party to what he hopes will be an...