Canadians are closely watching the historic referendum in Alberta, the world's fourth-largest energy and crude oil producer, where residents cast a non-binding vote to express their stance on "independence." Most polls indicate the public prefers to remain part of Canada, while Prime Minister Mark Carney warns that separation could bring economic uncertainty amid ongoing trade tensions with the U.S.
Canada is closely monitoring the referendum in western Alberta, which allows residents to express whether they want a legally binding vote on independence. This issue has sparked conflict and challenged the country's unity.
Alberta's election commission reported that all polling stations closed by 10:10 p.m. local time on 19 Oct 2023 GMT+7, after some stations extended voting hours due to late openings. About 3.1 million were eligible to vote, with approximately 1.4 million having voted early. No exact time for announcing projected results has been given.
Previous opinion polls show most people oppose independence. Angus Reid's survey released last week indicated 66% want Alberta to remain part of Canada. However, separatist supporters argue the federal government restricts oil industry development through environmental policies, and Alberta contributes more revenue to the country than it receives in benefits.
Mitch Silvester, leader of the Alberta Prosperity Project supporting independence, remains hopeful for victory. He said the movement has energized the province and will continue regardless of the referendum outcome.
Premier Danielle Smith of Alberta, who voted against independence, initiated the referendum to end divisive debates in the province. She promised that if the majority supports separation, she will pursue a legally binding referendum again. If those favoring unity win, she believes the separatist debate should end.
Prime Minister Mark Carney, who grew up in Alberta, campaigned for remaining in Canada. He warned that post-referendum uncertainty could impact the economy, drawing comparisons to the United Kingdom's Brexit vote to leave the European Union.
Separatist sentiment in Alberta has also attracted attention from U.S. allies close to President Donald Trump. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent called Alberta a natural partner of the U.S., while billionaire and Trump supporter Elon Musk posted support for Alberta's independence. Some separatist leaders have met with U.S. State Department officials and Republican political strategists.
Analysts believe that even if separatists lose this referendum, the movement may persist, as many believe the separatist cause will continue. The key question is whether activists will push for another referendum or form a political party explicitly supporting independence.
. . .Associated Press/Reuters