January 30, 2026
RED FM News Desk
Alberta’s New Democrats are renewing calls for all members of the provincial legislature to formally reject separatism, challenging United Conservative Party (UCP) and Independent MLAs to sign what they describe as a “simple and straightforward” pledge affirming support for Canada.
The opposition party says all 38 of its MLAs have signed the pledge, while none from the UCP or the Independent benches have done so — including Premier Danielle Smith.
“This should be an easy document for all Alberta elected officials to sign,” said Rakhi Pancholi, deputy leader of Alberta’s New Democrats, on Friday. “Are UCP MLAs proud Albertans and proud Canadians? Or are they separatists? Their silence speaks volumes.”
The renewed push comes amid ongoing debate over Premier Smith’s comments and rhetoric related to Alberta’s place within Confederation, which the NDP argues create economic uncertainty and geopolitical risk for the province.
Beyond economic concerns, New Democrats also emphasized what they say are serious constitutional implications tied to separatism — particularly regarding Indigenous treaty rights.
“Separatism threatens treaty rights, which are constitutionally protected,” said Brooks Arcand-Paul, the NDP’s shadow minister for Indigenous Relations. “Elders have taught me this clearly: the Treaties will never be up for negotiation. Treaties are not optional. Treaties are not an afterthought.”
Arcand-Paul added that both Alberta and Canada exist because of the treaties, stressing that all residents share a responsibility to uphold the rights of Indigenous Peoples. “We are all Treaty people,” he said.
Pancholi said Albertans want their government focused on practical priorities such as affordability, safety and economic stability, rather than constitutional debates.
Loading ...
