UCP Leaders Won’t Be Allowed to Advocate Alberta’s Separation from Canada, Danielle Smith Announces

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has announced that anyone seeking a position on the United Conservative Party (UCP) board will have to sign a pledge opposing provincial separation at the party’s annual general meeting next month.

Smith said Albertans voted overwhelmingly to remain part of Canada in last week’s referendum, and the party must respect the result. Current board members are also expected to honour the commitment.

Candidates running under the UCP banner in next year’s provincial election will also be required to respect the referendum results.

The move is aimed at keeping separatist voices within the party in check. Smith has warned that the issue could divide the UCP and potentially pave the way for an NDP victory in the next election.