The leader of the opposition in Alberta has expressed concerns about the timing of a proposed referendum on separation from Canada amidst ongoing trade tensions with the United States.
Naheed Nenshi, the leader of the NDP, emphasized the need for Premier Danielle Smith to reconsider or delay the referendum.
During a press briefing in Calgary on Tuesday, Nenshi stated, “It is crucial to halt the referendum at this moment. The premier’s approach to separatists reflects a lack of strength and undermines national unity.”
Albertans are scheduled to participate in a provincial referendum on October 19, which includes a question about initiating the legal procedures for a potential future binding vote on separation from Canada.
Nenshi underscored the importance of promoting unity as Canada navigates its trade dispute with the U.S.
Amidst the trade tensions, the U.S. has imposed tariffs on Canadian goods amounting to $28 billion, to which Canada has responded by announcing retaliatory tariffs set to take effect on September 8 on various products such as steel, aluminum, video game consoles, and fishing equipment.
In response to Nenshi’s remarks, the Premier’s office referred to Smith’s statements made during her radio program over the weekend. Smith defended the continuation of the referendum, citing the substantial number of citizens who have signed petitions advocating for a resolution.
Smith stated, “The citizens have expressed their desire for this question to be addressed now through the petitions they signed. Hence, the vote will take place on October 19.”
Despite leading the referendum, Smith has confirmed her intention to vote in favor of Alberta remaining part of Canada.
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Nenshi’s criticism aligns with statements made last week by Parti Quebecois Leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon.
Plamondon indicated that if his separatist party wins the upcoming Quebec general election in October, the promised referendum on secession would be postponed until the conclusion of U.S. President Donald Trump’s term.
Plamondon expressed concerns about the potential impact of the unpredictable Trump administration on Quebec’s referendum process and discussions regarding the province’s future.
Trump is currently midway through his four-year presidential term.
The Alberta NDP has accused Smith of pursuing the separatist vote not to address a significant concern among Albertans but to appease hardline separatists within her United Conservative Party.
Nenshi highlighted the difference in approach compared to Quebec, where separatism has been a longstanding issue.
“While genuine separatists in Quebec recognize the risks, why does a situational separatist like Danielle Smith fail to grasp the danger?” Nenshi questioned.
Prior to the referendum, various groups on both sides have organized advocacy campaigns to influence the opinions of Albertans.
Former political rivals in Alberta, Rachel Notley from the NDP and Jason Kenney from the UCP, have joined forces to co-chair a Canadian Chamber of Commerce campaign advocating for Alberta to remain part of Canada.
Despite their past differences, Notley and Kenney share the same stance on the significance of Alberta’s continued involvement in the Confederation.
