The top official of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) has informed First Nations leaders in Alberta that the RCMP will reassess the chiefs’ request for a criminal treason inquiry into the province’s premier and ruling party. This response has sparked optimism among some chiefs.
Chief Desmond Bull of the Louis Bull Tribe in Maskwacis expressed, “It’s a significant step towards our goal in bringing this matter to light.” He further added, “They will review the information provided to determine if there is sufficient basis to initiate an investigation, so I am hopeful about that.” Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation Chief Sheldon Sunshine, in a separate interview, shared his optimism about the review process.
The Assembly of Treaty Chiefs, representing 48 First Nations in Alberta under Treaty 6, Treaty 7, and Treaty 8 territories, unanimously passed a resolution on June 16 urging the RCMP and auditor general to look into whether Premier Danielle Smith and other members of the United Conservative Party may have committed treason under Section 46 of the Criminal Code.
Premier Smith has scheduled a referendum for October 19, allowing Albertans to decide whether to remain a part of Canada or proceed with a second binding referendum on separation. The Alberta government views the referendum as a respectful and democratic platform for citizens to voice and discuss valid concerns regarding federal policies.
Treason, as defined by the Criminal Code, involves using force to overthrow the government or sharing information with another state that could jeopardize the safety or defense of Canada.
Following the resolution’s passage, the assembly forwarded it to the RCMP. RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme, in a letter dated July 17, stated, “The matter has been referred to the appropriate operational and investigative units to assess if the information meets the criteria for launching a criminal investigation.” The letter was addressed to the leaders of Treaty 6, 7, and 8 and the Blackfoot Confederacy, with copies sent to provincial and federal attorneys general.
The RCMP emphasized that any potential investigation would be conducted objectively and in accordance with RCMP policies. The RCMP headquarters in Ottawa mentioned that assessments are carried out independently based on available facts and evidence, without commenting on private correspondence.
The treaty chiefs accuse Smith and the UCP of promoting separatism, breaching treaties, risking foreign interference, and failing to consult adequately with First Nations. Despite the premier’s pledge to vote for Alberta to stay in Canada, the chiefs remain critical of her actions.
Both Chief Bull and Chief Sunshine welcomed the RCMP’s response, with hopes for further progress. In the meantime, First Nations are encouraging their community members to participate in the upcoming referendum.
Chief Bull expressed disappointment that the federal government has not intervened to address what he views as a futile and distracting initiative. Chief Sunshine believes that the Mounties are treating the situation with seriousness and understanding the potential implications of the separation referendum.
In June, Premier Smith denounced the treason accusation as disgraceful and advised the chiefs to introspect. However, the chiefs disregarded her comments, emphasizing their concerns.
