Residents of Alberta in Canada are voting in a referendum that answers the question of whether the province should begin the process of independence. This vote, which in itself has little chance of success, reflects economic and political grievances in this oil-rich area.
Background of the Voting
Separatist leaders hope that a relatively strong showing from their supporters can exert more pressure on Prime Minister Mark Carney's government in Ottawa to pay more attention to Alberta's demands. Voting began at 9 AM local time in the provincial capital, Edmonton, and will continue until 8 PM. The results of the voting will be released gradually.
Alberta's Position and Political Views
This referendum is the first to be held in a province other than Quebec, which has a more recognized separatist movement. Alberta, with an area nearly twice that of Germany, has a population of about 5 million, nearly half of whom live in the two main cities of Edmonton and Calgary. The provincial government, led by Danielle Smith of the United Conservative Party, opposes independence and has urged voters to reject the proposal.
However, Smith has allowed the vote to respond to increasing demands within her party. Independence supporters accuse the government of suppressing Alberta's oil industry and believe that the province contributes a larger share of national revenues.
Economic and Political Opinions
Kory Morgan, founder of a separatist advocacy organization called Path to Independence, stated: "Canada has an imbalanced system that feeds the central population and government at the expense of producing provinces like Alberta." Carney, who grew up in Alberta, has campaigned for the 'Stay' campaign over the past week, using nationalist sentiments to encourage voters to vote in favor of remaining in Canada.
Despite polls in Quebec showing that enthusiasm for independence is lower than usual, the topic never strays far from political discussions. Carney is also trying to maintain national unity amid pressure from the close neighbor and Canada's largest trading partner.
