Canada’s highest-ranking Mountie has informed Indigenous leaders in Alberta that the RCMP will assess their request for a criminal treason investigation into the provincial premier and ruling party. This response has generated optimism among some chiefs.
Chief Desmond Bull of the Louis Bull Tribe in Maskwacis expressed satisfaction with the development, stating, “It’s a positive step towards our goal of pursuing this matter.” Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation Chief Sheldon Sunshine also shared his optimism, saying, “I am hopeful that the RCMP will find enough grounds to initiate an investigation after going through their review process.”
The Assembly of Treaty Chiefs, representing 48 First Nations across Treaty 6, Treaty 7, and Treaty 8 territories in Alberta, passed a unanimous resolution on June 16 urging the RCMP and auditor general to look into whether Premier Danielle Smith and other members of the United Conservative Party may have committed treason under Section 46 of the Criminal Code.
Premier Smith has scheduled a referendum for October 19, allowing Albertans to vote on staying in Canada or pursuing a second binding referendum on separation. The Alberta government asserts that the referendum offers a respectful and democratic platform for citizens to express and discuss legitimate grievances regarding federal policies and decisions.
Treason, as defined in the Criminal Code, involves actions such as using force to overthrow the government or sharing information with another state that could endanger Canada’s safety or defense.
Following the passing of the resolution, the assembly forwarded it to the RCMP. A letter from RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme dated July 17, obtained by CBC Indigenous, confirmed that the matter was under review to determine if there are sufficient grounds to launch a criminal investigation.
The letter was addressed to leaders of Treaty 6, 7, and 8, as well as the Blackfoot Confederacy, with copies sent to provincial and federal attorneys general. Commissioner Duheme reiterated that any potential investigation would be conducted objectively and in accordance with RCMP policies.
The offices of Attorney General Sean Fraser and Minister of Justice Mickey Amery declined to provide comments, deferring inquiries to the RCMP. The RCMP headquarters in Ottawa stated that assessments are carried out independently and objectively based on available facts, law, and evidence. The RCMP emphasized that it does not publicly discuss ongoing investigations unless criminal charges are laid.
The 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 assurance that she will vote for Alberta to remain part of Canada, the chiefs remain critical of her actions and associations.
Chief Bull expressed satisfaction with the RCMP’s response and hopes for further progress. Meanwhile, First Nations are urging their communities to participate in the upcoming referendum.
While acknowledging Premier Smith’s criticism of the treason accusation as “disgraceful,” the chiefs remain committed to their cause. Chief Sunshine believes that the RCMP is treating the matter seriously, recognizing the broader implications of the separation referendum and associated risks.
