The authorities in Alberta have said the results of the referendum vote will be announced on October 29, as residents decide whether the province should begin the process of separating from Canada or remain part of the country.
The timetable released by the provincial government showed that advance voting for the non-binding referendum started on Tuesday and will end on Saturday, while the last day of voting is scheduled for Monday.
Additionally, the unofficial results of the vote will be available on Election Alberta’s website within 48 hours of close of voting locations on October 19, with the official results scheduled to be announced on October 29, 2026.
Reports noted that the opinion whether the oil-rich province should remain with Canada is not the only question on the ballot. Residents would also vote on nine other non-binding questions on immigration, access to provincial services — including education, social care and healthcare — and voter identification requirements.
Reuters reported that polls have consistently shown that about 70 per cent of Albertans want to remain in Canada, while roughly a quarter support independence. However, a simple majority in favour of independence in the vote could trigger the legal process required to hold a referendum.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith on Wednesday said that she had officially marked her ballot in the provinces separation referendum — and it’s a vote for a united Canada.
“We have seen great progress lately in addressing the unfair laws and policies that have hurt Alberta,” Smith said in a video posted Wednesday to social media announcing she voted earlier in the day.
“Canada can still work. We just need to make some changes. Voting yes to questions one through nine is how we send a message to Ottawa that provinces need more autonomy and respect if Canada is going to be stronger and unified,” she stated.
Meanwhile, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney accused United States President Donald Trump’s administration of trying to break up and take control of Canada as the Alberta referendum approaches.
Mr Carney made the allegation on Thursday while speaking at a pro-Canada rally in Calgary, to discourage people from voting on Monday on whether Alberta should begin a legal process that could lead to separation from Canada.
“This referendum comes at the worst possible time. The world has become more dangerous and divided. Some outside our borders are working to break us so they can own us,” the prime minister said.