It’s hard to say which is more misplaced. The legally baseless notion of Alberta’s Indigenous chiefs that the premier has committed treason, or the RCMP indulging this foolishness.

The chiefs are still making their foolish claim, the RCMP is still pretending it may have merit, and the state broadcaster dutifully reports on the issue.

The chiefs have never been shy about expending resources on legal fees. Perhaps they should consult one of the many lawyers they keep on retainer. Even a first-year law student can glance at the claim and realize in seconds there is nothing to it. Still, the chiefs didn’t get into their roles due to legal expertise, so perhaps they can be forgiven for such a terrible ignorance of the law.

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Section 46 of the Criminal Code defines high treason and treason tightly. High treason covers killing/attempting to kill or harming the monarch, levying war against Canada (or preparatory acts), or assisting an enemy at war with Canada (or forces against which Canadian Forces are engaged).

Treason covers using force or violence to overthrow the government of Canada or a province; without lawful authority, communicating military or scientific information to a foreign-state agent knowing it may prejudice Canada’s safety or defence; and related conspiracies or overt acts.

None of that describes calling a non-binding referendum. Alberta’s October 19, 2026, vote asks whether the province should remain in Canada or commence the legal process under the Constitution for a later binding referendum on separation. It responds to large citizen petitions. There is no force, no violence, no war, no enemy assistance, and no leaking of military/scientific secrets.

The RCMP should not treat this as a serious candidate for investigation. They offered a polite “we’ll look into it” response when the chiefs initially made the absurd allegation months ago. Pretending there is still something to examine at this point to try to pacify the petulant chiefs is an embarrassing look for the RCMP. Part of their job is to tell complainants when there has been no crime committed, and it’s rather clear there’s nothing to see here.

There are many serious issues the RCMP could be addressing rather than pretending there may be a case of treason in Alberta. The rampant crime in Indigenous reserves would be a good place to start.