Manitoba’s Kinew and Alberta’s Smith Clash on First Nations Consultation and Referendum at Western Premiers Summit

(L-R) Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew, Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe, and B.C. Premier David Eby, pose wearing Team Canada soccer jerseys during a group photo at a meeting of western premiers in Kananaskis, Alta., on May 26, 2026. The Canadian Press/Jeff McIntosh

Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew says Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is wrong in her belief that a recent court ruling against a petition calling for a separation referendum iss “anti-democratic,” saying the court’s decision rightly called for proper First Nations consultation.

Kinew made the remarks in response to a question addressed to Smith on her government’s upcoming referendum related to separation, during a press conference at the Western Premiers Conference in Kananaskis, Alta., on May 26.