Pierre Karl Pladeau 'touched' by Quebecers' kind words

Former Parti Qubcois leader Pierre Karl Pladeau is thanking Quebecers for supporting his decision to step down.

Pladeautook to social media tospeak out publicly for the first time since he abruptly quit as party leader last week.

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He wrote a message on his Facebook page, saying he was touched by messages that people have posted thereand that he greatly appreciates the kind words.

Pladeau stepped down abruptly as leader of the party on May 2, saying he made the decision for family reasons.

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"I also thank all the citizens I crossed paths withorran into on the street who told me they understand and support my decision," his Facebook post read.

Pladeau went on to say that he remains a militant who is deeply attached to the PQ and continues to be committed to Quebec sovereignty.

Party members will elect a new leader in the fall.

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