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Most voters in Canada’s oil-rich province of Alberta have opted to remain part of Canada, according to preliminary results from a referendum on separation, dealing a major blow to separatists backed by allies of US President Donald Trump.
The results released on Tuesday showed that the pro-Canadian unity camp was heading for a decisive victory. According to projections by public broadcaster CBC and private network CTV, more than 76 per cent of voters supported remaining within Canada after about one-third of the ballots had been counted.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney criticised the timing of the referendum, describing it as the “most inappropriate” moment to hold such a vote.
He stressed the importance of national stability at a time when Trump was pursuing a trade war and threatening to bring other territories under US control.
Jeffrey Rath, a leading figure in the separatist organisation Alberta Prosperity Project, said the movement would continue its campaign for an independent Alberta regardless of the outcome.
“We have learned a lot from this fight,” Rath told reporters.
However, some separatist supporters expressed disappointment over the apparent rejection of independence.
Zurr Dain, a 40-year-old supporter of the movement, said he was frustrated with the province’s voters and indicated that he might leave Alberta if it remained part of Canada.
“Honestly, if the trend of remaining part of Canada continues, I will leave here,” he said, adding that he wanted to live in the United States.
Ahead of the results, supporters of Canadian unity gathered in Edmonton, where a band played music to energise people attending a gathering organised by the pro-Canada camp.
Thomas Lukaszuk, head of the Forever Canadian organisation, said it was encouraging to witness such enthusiasm and determination among Canadians.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said she had voted against independence but had called the referendum to seek a lasting resolution to an issue that has deeply divided the province.
She said a victory for the pro-Canada camp would bring the question of separation to a permanent close.
Alberta, one of Canada’s major oil-producing provinces, has long seen tensions over federal policies, energy development and the distribution of revenues. Separatist sentiment has periodically gained momentum among residents who believe the province’s economic interests are not adequately represented by the federal government.
The preliminary results suggest that a clear majority of participating voters favour remaining within Canada, although the separatist movement has pledged to continue its campaign.
