Alberta Legislature in session, image via https://www.assembly.ab.ca
EDMONTON — The number of Alberta MLAs facing recall petitions has risen to 14 after Elections Alberta approved five more applications this week, adding to a growing wave of voter-led challenges to Premier Danielle Smith’s United Conservative caucus.
The newest petitions target two cabinet ministers and three backbenchers, following six approvals Monday and three earlier this fall. Education Minister Demetrios Nicolaides, Speaker Ric McIver and several other senior UCP figures are among those now at risk of a recall vote.
Many petitioners cite anger over the government’s use of the notwithstanding clause to end last month’s teachers strike. Others allege their MLAs have stopped engaging with constituents, a claim the politicians reject. Smith has argued the campaigns are politically driven attempts to weaken her government ahead of the 2027 election.
Under Alberta’s Recall Act, any eligible voter who has lived in their riding for at least three months may apply to launch a petition. Applicants must submit identification, a $500 fee and a statement of no more than 100 words explaining the reason for recall. If approved, petitioners receive official signature sheets and have 90 days to collect signatures from registered electors equal to 60 per cent of ballots cast in the last provincial election.
Only registered canvassers may gather signatures, which must be original and witnessed. Elections Alberta verifies the petition within 21 days. If the threshold is met, the government must hold a recall vote within four months. A majority vote to recall removes the MLA and triggers a by-election.
British Columbia is the only other province with recall legislation.
Comments