Canada’s highest-ranking RCMP official has informed First Nations leaders in Alberta that the RCMP will assess the chiefs’ request for a criminal treason investigation into the province’s premier and ruling party. This response has sparked optimism among some chiefs.
Chief Desmond Bull of the Louis Bull Tribe in Maskwacis, who prepared the case for the allegation, expressed, “It’s a step forward in achieving our goal.” Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation Chief Sheldon Sunshine, in a separate interview, stated, “They will review the information to decide if there is sufficient basis for an investigation, and I am hopeful that there is.”
The Assembly of Treaty Chiefs, representing 48 First Nations in Alberta under Treaty 6, Treaty 7, and Treaty 8, unanimously passed a resolution on June 16 urging the RCMP and auditor general to look into whether Premier Danielle Smith and other United Conservative Party members could be charged with treason under Section 46 of the Criminal Code.
Premier Smith has called for a referendum on October 19 for Albertans to vote on staying in Canada or proceeding with a second binding referendum on separation. The Alberta government defends the referendum as a respectful and democratic platform for citizens to voice and discuss valid concerns about federal policies and decisions.
According to the Criminal Code, treason involves using force to overthrow the government or sharing information with another state that could jeopardize Canada’s safety or defense. After the resolution passed, the assembly forwarded it to the RCMP, which responded a month later in a letter obtained by CBC Indigenous this week.
RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme’s letter, dated July 17, addressed the leaders of Treaty 6, 7, and 8, and the Blackfoot Confederacy, stating, “If the criteria for a criminal investigation are met, any steps taken will be conducted objectively and thoroughly in line with the RCMP’s policies.”
The response from Sean Fraser’s office and the Justice Department was no comment, while Mickey Amery’s office referred inquiries to Alberta’s Ministry of Indigenous Relations, which had not responded at the time of publication.
An RCMP statement from Ottawa emphasized that assessments are carried out independently and objectively based on facts, law, and evidence, and the RCMP refrains from commenting on private correspondence unless criminal charges are filed.
Chief Bull expressed satisfaction with the RCMP’s response and hopes for further action. In the meantime, First Nations are urging their people to participate in the referendum.
Premier Smith denounced the treason allegation as shameful in June and advised the chiefs to “reflect on their actions.” Both chiefs disregarded her remarks.
Chief Sunshine believes that the Mounties are treating the situation seriously, including the separation referendum and associated risks.