Canada's Foreign Influence Commissioner Probes Alberta Separatist Group
Foreign influence commissioner Anton Boegman contacted the Alberta Prosperity Project regarding registration requirements under federal foreign interference laws ahead of an October 19 referendum.
Canada's foreign influence commissioner, Anton Boegman, contacted the Alberta Prosperity Project to determine if the group must register its activities under federal foreign interference legislation passed in 2024. The inquiry follows reports that the separatist group, which seeks Alberta's independence from Canada, held meetings with Republican party strategists and United States State Department officials to solicit support.
During these meetings, the group reportedly pitched the United States increased access to Alberta's water and oil resources and discussed the use of a voter mobilization app. Boegman's office contacted 60 organizations, including the separatists, with assistance from Elections Alberta. This outreach occurs ahead of an October 19 referendum to decide if Albertans want a vote on leaving Canada.
Conflicting accounts have emerged regarding the communication. Boegman stated his office has not heard back from the group, while Alberta Prosperity Project leader Mitch Sylvestre claimed he was unaware of any such contact. Under the 2024 legal regime, organizations that fail to disclose arrangements with foreign actors may face financial penalties.
