A key figure in the Alberta separatist movement emphasizes that if the referendum results are not in their favor, their efforts will persist. Mitch Sylvestre, the CEO of the Alberta Prosperity Project, expressed in a late September interview with CBC News that they will continue their cause unless significant changes occur with the federal government.
Sylvestre stated, “Why would we halt this movement? We are driven by our belief that a crisis is looming here.” He emphasized their commitment, saying, “What reason is there to think we would abandon this? We are convinced of the issue at hand.”
On October 19th, Albertans will cast their votes on whether to maintain their ties with Canada or pave the way for a decisive referendum on separation. While surveys consistently indicate that the majority of Albertans prefer to remain part of Canada, a recent CBC News poll suggests a potential softening in support for the status quo.
Despite his disregard for poll results, Sylvestre shared with CBC News that he will acknowledge the referendum outcome but affirmed that it wouldn’t deter their movement, regardless of the decision.
The Stay Free Alberta petitioners claimed over 178,000 signatures a month ago to trigger a referendum, now exceeding 300,000. (Alice Burgat/Radio-Canada)
He asserted, “We won’t give up based on outcomes we dislike.” Sylvestre speculated that support for a binding separation referendum could range between 40 to 65 percent, citing his extensive engagement with Albertans through town hall meetings.
Addressing the potential for reconsideration based on the vote margin, Sylvestre indicated that a significant defeat would be required to sway his stance.
Regarding Alberta Premier Danielle Smith’s strategy in the event of continued secession efforts, the premier’s press secretary, Sam Blackett, refrained from specifics, emphasizing the intent to heed the public’s direction on October 19th.
Approximately 650,000 mail-in ballots have been dispatched by Elections Alberta, a significant increase compared to the 2023 provincial election. Sylvestre expressed skepticism towards mail-in ballots, suggesting potential concerns if they favor maintaining Canadian ties, but indicated trust if they support the option for a future vote.
He clarified their detachment from the mail-in process and stressed the importance of in-person voting to avoid potential discrepancies.
Elections Alberta highlighted the stringent verification process for mail-in ballots, underlining the rarity of fraudulent voting instances in past years.
