Alberta separatists have reportedly surpassed the required number of signatures for a referendum on independence, with over 177,732 signatures collected, representing 10% of the total votes cast in the last provincial election.

The petition, initiated by Stay Free Alberta, proposes a referendum asking, “Do you agree that the Province of Alberta should cease to be part of Canada to become an independent state?” The signature collection period began on January 3 and will conclude on May 2.

Once the collection period ends, Elections Alberta will verify the signatures. If successful, the independence question may be included in a planned referendum on several issues set for October 19.

This movement for independence is part of a broader trend in Alberta, reflecting growing sentiments among some residents for greater autonomy from the federal government.

In addition to the independence petition, the Alberta government is also advancing the Alberta Whisky Act, which aims to define and protect the labeling of whisky produced in the province. If passed, this legislation would give Alberta-distilled whisky a distinct identity.

The Alberta Whisky Act, identified as Bill 24, is seen as crucial for local distillers, with proponents stating, “The world wants more of everything Alberta has to offer.” This legislation would ensure Alberta distillers have the recognition they need to flourish on the world stage.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding whether the independence question will be added to the October referendum if the petition is validated. As the situation develops, observers are closely monitoring the implications for Alberta’s political landscape.

Сообщение Alberta Separatists Claim Success in Independence Petition появились сначала на justrealnews.

Leaders behind an Alberta separatist petition have confirmed they have surpassed 177,732 signatures, meeting the threshold to trigger a provincial referendum or legislative vote on independence. This figure represents 10 percent of the total votes cast in the last provincial election.

The petition, initiated by the group Stay Free Alberta, proposes a referendum asking Albertans if they agree that Alberta should cease to be part of Canada to become an independent state. The group began collecting signatures on January 3, 2024, and has until May 2, 2024 to finalize their count.

Once submitted, Elections Alberta will verify the signatures. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has stated, “I have said that any citizen initiative that gets the requisite number of signatures will be put on the ballot.” This commitment has fueled the separatist movement’s momentum.

The province is also planning to hold a referendum on several questions on October 19, 2024, which raises questions about whether the independence question will be included on that ballot.

Opposition NDP Leader Naheed Nenshi criticized the government, stating, “The half a million Albertans who signed the ‘Forever Canadian’ petition are still waiting for their day in the legislature.” He labeled the current situation as “not democracy” but rather a premier “grasping for power.”

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact wording of the referendum question, which may change before it is presented to voters. The political landscape in Alberta continues to shift as both sides prepare for a potentially contentious debate over the province’s future.

Сообщение Alberta Referendum: Separatist Petition Hits 177,732 Signatures появились сначала на justrealnews.