A group advocating for Alberta separation, backed by a third-party advertiser, expressed satisfaction with Elections Alberta’s directive for a pro-unity organization to disclose its campaign finances. Cory Morgan, the head of Pathway to Independence, has been vocal about Forever Canadian’s initial failure to disclose its fundraising totals. Morgan criticized former deputy premier Thomas Lukaszuk for allegedly running a non-transparent campaign without adhering to fundraising and spending limits imposed on other organizations in the referendum.
Elections Alberta recently reached a compliance agreement with Forever Canadian, led by Lukaszuk, requiring the group to report expenses from events where referendum-related stances were presented. Despite registering as a third-party advertiser in early June, Forever Canadian had not disclosed its financial contributions until recently. Lukaszuk justified this by stating that his group’s activities were not explicitly promoting a specific referendum choice, in line with Elections Alberta’s regulations.
Last month, Forever Canadian announced its intention to actively campaign and disclose financial information. By October 1, the group had reported over $94,000 in donations to Elections Alberta. The maximum contribution limit for third-party advertisers is $607,000, with donations over $50 requiring reporting and individuals capped at a combined $5,000 annual donation limit. Only Alberta residents are permitted to contribute.
Despite the compliance agreement, Morgan believes more transparency is needed concerning Forever Canadian’s fundraising activities, particularly with the referendum approaching. He expressed hope for increased disclosure before voters cast their ballots, emphasizing the importance of clarity in campaign finances. Rebel News Network Ltd. had previously raised concerns about Forever Canadian’s financial reporting, leading to a formal complaint to Elections Alberta in July.
Albertans are set to vote on October 19 regarding their preference for staying in Canada or pursuing a second, binding referendum on secession. Stephen Carter, head of the pro-unity third-party advertiser Alberta’s Voice, endorsed the compliance agreement, emphasizing the significance of a fair and well-regulated referendum conducted by Elections Alberta. Carter expressed comfort with Forever Canadian being held to the same standards as outlined in third-party advertiser rules.
