Canada’s chief RCMP officer has assured Indigenous leaders in Alberta that the RCMP will carefully assess their request for a criminal treason investigation into the province’s premier and ruling party. This response has sparked optimism among some chiefs.
Chief Desmond Bull of the Louis Bull Tribe in Maskwacis, who prepared the case for the allegation, expressed his satisfaction, stating, “It’s a significant step forward towards our goal.” Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation Chief Sheldon Sunshine also shared his hopeful outlook in a separate interview.
The Assembly of Treaty Chiefs, representing 48 First Nations in Alberta under Treaty 6, Treaty 7, and Treaty 8, unanimously passed a resolution on June 16 urging the RCMP and auditor general to probe Premier Danielle Smith and other United Conservative Party members for potential treason under Section 46 of the Criminal Code.
Premier Smith has scheduled an October 19 referendum for Albertans to decide whether to remain in Canada or proceed with a binding referendum on separation. The Alberta government asserts that the referendum offers a respectful and democratic platform for citizens to voice and discuss legitimate grievances with federal policies and decisions.
Treason, as defined in the Criminal Code, involves the use of force to overthrow the government or sharing information with another state that could harm Canada’s safety or defense.
Following the resolution’s passage, the assembly forwarded it to the RCMP, which replied a month later in a letter obtained by CBC Indigenous this week. RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme, in the July 17 letter addressed to the leaders of Treaty 6, 7, and 8, as well as the Blackfoot Confederacy, mentioned that the matter has been assessed to determine if it warrants a criminal investigation.
The RCMP assured that if the criteria for a formal criminal investigation are met, all investigative steps will be taken objectively and diligently, in line with RCMP policy. The Justice Department and provincial authorities have refrained from commenting at this time.
The RCMP emphasized that assessments are conducted independently and based on facts, law, and evidence available. The RCMP does not disclose information on ongoing investigations unless charges are laid.
The treaty chiefs accuse Premier Smith and the UCP of promoting separatism, breaching treaties, risking foreign interference, and failing to consult adequately with First Nations. Despite the premier’s declaration that she will vote for Alberta to remain part of Canada, the chiefs remain critical of her actions.
Chief Bull expressed satisfaction with the RCMP’s response and hopes for progress. First Nations are encouraging their people to participate in the upcoming referendum.
Sunshine noted the seriousness with which the Mounties are approaching the situation, highlighting concerns surrounding the separation referendum and associated risks.
In June, Premier Smith labeled the treason allegation as disgraceful and advised the chiefs to reflect on their actions. However, the chiefs dismissed her comments.
Sunshine believes that the RCMP is treating the matter seriously, indicating a comprehensive assessment of the situation surrounding the separation referendum and associated risks.