King Charles III has expressed concern regarding the growing separatist movement in Alberta during a meeting with Indigenous leaders at Buckingham Palace on Wednesday. Grand Chief Joey Pete of the Confederacy of Treaty 6 First Nations, who was part of the delegation, conveyed that the King was receptive to their concerns about the potential threats to treaty rights posed by Alberta separatism.
The delegation of seven Indigenous leaders from Alberta and Saskatchewan met privately with King Charles for nearly an hour. Chief Pete said he felt encouraged by the conversation, believing the King was genuinely listening. The Indigenous leaders voiced their worries, emphasizing that their relationship is directly with the Crown, not the provinces or the Canadian government. They also highlighted that treaties are recognized under international law.
Several First Nations are challenging Alberta’s legislation that permits citizen-led petitions for referendums, including those on separation, in court. They argue that such initiatives violate treaty rights and the constitutional duty for consultations. Alberta Justice Minister Mickey Amery stated the government must ensure any potential referendum question respects the Constitution and treaty rights.
The King's expression of concern comes amid increasing political debate in Alberta. Premier Danielle Smith has faced criticism for not denouncing separatism, with Opposition NDP Leader Naheed Nenshi accusing her of creating economic uncertainty. Meanwhile, Grand Chief Trevor Mercredi, who wasn't part of the delegation, said treaty rights are firmly entrenched in Canadian law and would pose constitutional challenges for any separation attempt.
