RCMP to assess First Nations' request for treason probe of Alberta premier and UCP
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police said they will review a unanimous call by Alberta First Nations to investigate Premier Danielle Smith and the United Conservative Party for possible treason related to a separation referendum.
A coalition of Alberta First Nations, represented by the Assembly of Treaty Chiefs, passed a unanimous resolution on June 16 demanding a criminal treason investigation into Premier Danielle Smith and United Conservative Party officials over a proposed October 19 referendum on provincial separation. The resolution was sent to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, which on July 17 replied that the matter had been referred to the relevant operational and investigative divisions to assess whether the information meets the threshold for a criminal probe.
RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme indicated that any subsequent steps would follow standard policy and remain objective. Chiefs Desmond Bull of the Louis Bull Tribe and Sheldon Sunshine of Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation welcomed the response, noting it brings the issue closer to a potential investigation. The correspondence was also shared with Alberta Attorney General Mickey Amery and federal Justice Minister Sean Fraser, both of whom deferred further comment to their respective departments.
Why it matters
It shows how Indigenous leaders are using legal channels to challenge provincial actions that could affect Canada's unity.
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