In a surprising turn of events, a leader of Alberta’s separatist movement has revealed that some members of Premier Danielle Smith’s United Conservative Party (UCP) caucus have signed a petition advocating for a referendum on the province’s independence from Canada. This development has sparked considerable debate over Alberta’s political landscape and the future of its relationship with the rest of the country.
Petition for Independence
Jeff Rath, a lawyer representing the separatist group Stay Free Alberta, disclosed on Thursday that he is aware of UCP members who have backed the petition aimed at prompting a vote on whether Alberta should become an independent state. “I know of UCP members of the legislature that have signed the petition,” Rath stated, expressing confidence that more will join as they seek to empower Albertans to determine their future.
The petition, launched earlier this month, requires nearly 178,000 signatures by May to be successful. If it meets this threshold, it would fall to the justice minister to refer the matter to the lieutenant-governor, who would then call for a referendum. Rath, however, refrained from naming the legislators who have signed, adhering to Alberta’s confidentiality regulations regarding petitions.
Premier Smith’s Response
Facing mounting pressure, Premier Smith has resisted calls from other provincial leaders to publicly denounce the separatist movement. This scrutiny intensified following reports that separatist leaders have engaged with U.S. officials regarding their independence efforts. Smith’s office directed inquiries about the petition’s supporters to the UCP caucus, asserting that Rath does not represent their views.
“The United Conservative government is focused on building a strong and sovereign Alberta within a united Canada,” the caucus stated, emphasising their commitment to the work they were elected to do.
Opposition Critiques
In the opposition camp, NDP Leader Naheed Nenshi has urged UCP members who have signed the petition to disclose their support publicly. He argued that constituents deserve clarity on whether their representatives endorse the idea of Alberta becoming a separate nation. “If they don’t, we’ll just assume all of them signed the petition,” Nenshi remarked, asserting that the current leadership appears unable to manage its caucus effectively.
Nenshi has also called for all members of the legislature to sign a pledge against separatism, highlighting the potential economic repercussions of such a movement. “Separatism doesn’t lower the cost of living. It doesn’t build hospital beds. It doesn’t improve public education,” he stated, emphasising that such sentiments could deter investment and cost jobs.
Broader Implications
British Columbia Premier David Eby has labelled the actions of Alberta separatists as “treasonous,” particularly in light of their discussions with U.S. State Department officials. Eby stressed that seeking assistance from a foreign power to undermine Canada is “completely inappropriate.” Other premiers, while less severe in their language, have also called for Smith to take a definitive stand against the separatist campaign. Ontario Premier Doug Ford remarked that this is a critical moment for Smith to clarify her position: “Either you’re with Canada or you’re not.”
In response to these escalating tensions, Smith has refrained from disparaging those in Alberta who feel disillusioned with Canada. “What we need to do is give Albertans hope,” she said, advocating for actions that demonstrate the viability of Canada as a united entity.
Rath acknowledged his meetings with U.S. officials but maintained that these discussions did not amount to treachery. He clarified that no agreements have been made, nor have any funds been solicited. “We have not entered into any agreements with the United States with regard to anything. We are not receiving funds from them,” he asserted, describing his conversations about a hypothetical $500 billion fund to support Alberta’s transition to independence as more theoretical than practical.
The petition, which is being led by Mitch Sylvestre, a UCP constituency association president, has garnered significant attention, with reports of long queues of Albertans braving the cold to add their names. Rath noted, “I think we’re exceeding everybody’s expectations. Everybody’s really excited and joyful about having the opportunity to sign Alberta out of Canada.”
Why it Matters
The growing support for Alberta’s separatist movement among members of the UCP underscores a significant shift in the province’s political dynamics. As discussions around independence gain traction, they present a challenge not only to the provincial government but also to the unity of Canada as a whole. This situation raises pressing questions about the future of provincial autonomy, federal relations, and the economic implications of potential separation. Albertans are now faced with a pivotal moment in their political history, one that could redefine their identity and place within Canada.
