Danielle Smith tells First Nations chiefs to ‘check themselves’ over treason accusations

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has sharply rebuked a group of Indigenous chiefs, telling them to "check themselves" after they accused her of potential treason for calling a separatism vote. The Assembly of Treaty Chiefs, representing First Nations across Alberta, unanimously voted to request the RCMP investigate whether Smith and her United Conservative Party's planned referendum constitutes criminal treason.

The chiefs stated the fall referendum intentionally violates the treaty relationship and disregards risks to Canada’s sovereignty. "We call for this investigation on the basis of the intentional violation of the Treaties; of calling a referendum in the face of severe risks to Canada’s sovereignty and the Treaty Relationship and of failing to take action on the violation of privacy rights of millions of people," the assembly said in a statement.

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Look, I’ve had my differences with the federal government, but I have never used language like that.

Smith dismissed the accusation as "disgraceful." Speaking at an unrelated news conference, she contrasted her approach with the chiefs' language, noting that while she has had differences with the federal government, she has never used such extreme terms. She emphasized that her government maintains a collaborative relationship with the assembly and wishes to continue it, but believes the chiefs' rhetoric has no place in a democracy.

"When they were pursuing a new relationship with Ottawa, I cheered them along. We are pursuing a new relationship with Ottawa that respects our jurisdiction, and I would ask that they be respectful of that," Smith added. Albertans are scheduled to vote on October 19 on whether they wish to remain in Canada or initiate the process for a binding referendum on the province's secession.

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When they were pursuing a new relationship with Ottawa, I cheered them along. We are pursuing a new relationship with Ottawa that respects our jurisdiction, and I would ask that they be respectful of that.