Canada separatists submit bid to force Alberta independence vote

Alberta separatists submitted stacks of boxes containing over 300,000 signatures to Elections Alberta, potentially triggering an independence referendum. The pro-independence movement, led by Mitch Sylvestre, has gained momentum in recent months. Separatist supporters argue that Alberta is being ruled by Liberals who don't represent their interests, particularly in the lucrative oil sector. Elections Alberta must verify the signatures, but a court ruling has put the process on hold due to a legal challenge from Indigenous groups. The movement has been fueled by resentment towards Ottawa, particularly over former Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau's National Energy Program. Alberta joined the Canadian confederation in 1905, and tensions have simmered over the years, with the current climate-conscious agenda of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau reviled by many in Alberta.