UCP Riding Group Calls for Leadership Review of Danielle Smith

A UCP constituency group in Alberta’s Highwood riding has called for a leadership review of Premier Danielle Smith amid growing tensions over the province’s upcoming separation referendum.

The dispute comes ahead of the October 19 referendum on whether Alberta should remain part of Canada. Smith has clearly stated that she supports a united Canada with a more autonomous Alberta and is campaigning for the province to remain in Canada.

Her position has angered separatist groups. Alberta Prosperity Project leader Mitch Sylvester and other separatist figures have accused Smith of dividing the party’s base by campaigning for unity instead of remaining neutral on the referendum question.

Under UCP rules, at least 22 of the party’s 87 constituency associations must support a formal leadership review vote. So far, only the Highwood riding group has taken that step.

The internal opposition and criticism from separatist leaders are adding pressure on Smith ahead of the party’s annual convention in November.