Danielle Smith has paved the way for a referendum on 19/10 on whether the province should remain part of Canada, or begin the process towards a second, legally binding referendum on permanent separation from Canada.

This idea has shocked Canada, a nation that relies on Alberta's oil and gas revenue and is currently experiencing trade tensions with the US.

Danielle Smith stated that 700,000 Albertans, out of a total population of about 5 million, have signed petitions expressing their views on the matter.

"I think we need to have this discussion and find answers", she said.

Alberta premier Danielle Smith. *Photo: Canadian Press*

Smith asserted that she wants Alberta to remain part of Canada, albeit with significant autonomy. However, her actions have made it easier for separatists to organize a vote. Consequently, Smith is now facing criticism from both those who support and those who oppose secession.

Other premiers have opposed this plan. Business leaders have warned that it could diminish investment appeal.

Separatists desire an immediate, decisive vote on whether to stay or leave, rather than a "trial" referendum to prepare for a subsequent ballot. This group is so disappointed that some have even called for her removal.

Meanwhile, those who advocate for national unity accuse Smith of jeopardizing the country's integrity simply to appease separatists and retain her position. Polls indicate that over 50% of voters supporting her United Conservative Party favor secession.

"She is very aware that the people who helped bring her to power as premier are the most ardent separatist supporters", stated Shachi Kurl, president of the Angus Reid Institute, a polling organization. "It's a dilemma".

A booth supporting independence for Alberta in Canada in June. *Photo: Reuters*

Alberta's dissatisfaction with the federal government has been ongoing for many years. The province holds the 4th largest proven oil reserves globally. Smith, 55, who has served as premier since 2022, has criticized the Liberal government under former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for advancing legislation that curbed the oil and gas industry.

As premier, she has consistently worked to secure greater autonomy for Alberta, even threatening an "unprecedented national unity crisis" if the federal government did not repeal the laws she opposed.

In High River, a town nestled in the foothills about 68 km south of Calgary, the province's largest city, Albertans hold mixed opinions on whether a referendum should be held.

"This whole thing is ridiculous", shared Julie Shoup, 69, who supports Alberta remaining part of Canada. "It's just dividing people".

Heidi Dominas, 63, a cashier at a store along the main road, also plans to vote for Alberta to remain in Canada. Nevertheless, she does not oppose the referendum. "It shows people how democracy truly works", she shared.

Volunteers from the Alberta independence movement erect campaign signs on 5/2. *Photo: Reuters*

Many have expressed skepticism about the Premier's true stance.

Shae Morris, 56, plans to vote in favor of holding a legally binding referendum. She believes the province contributes more to the federal government than it receives and would be better off as an independent entity. Morris also expressed doubt about whether Premier Smith genuinely supports Alberta remaining part of Canada.

"I think she's just playing a role to keep the peace", Morris said.

Rick Bozak, 69, owner of a warehouse repair business, stated that he understands the separatists' grievances but asserts that the province would not be better off running its own pension or healthcare systems. He also disapproves of how Smith is handling the issue.

"She's trying to play both sides", Bozak remarked.

By Hoang Lan (According to WSJ, Reuters)