Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has pushed back against billionaire Elon Musk’s call for Quebec, Alberta and Saskatchewan to separate from Canada, insisting that the country’s future must be determined by its citizens.
Carney made the remarks on Thursday, October 8, while responding to questions about Musk’s comments. He stressed that Canadians should be free to determine their political future and preserve their languages and cultures without interference from foreign governments or major technology companies.
Musk expressed support for the separation of the three provinces in a post on his social media platform, X, on Wednesday, October 7. His comments followed the victory of the separatist Parti Québécois in Quebec’s provincial election.
“Good. Quebec should separate,” Musk wrote, adding that Alberta and Saskatchewan should also leave Canada.
However, the Parti Québécois won approximately 28 per cent of the popular vote and failed to secure a majority in Quebec’s legislature. Political scientist Daniel Béland of McGill University said the election result did not necessarily indicate widespread support for independence, noting that public support for Quebec’s separation remains around 30 per cent.
Meanwhile, Alberta is scheduled to hold a vote on October 19 on whether the province should remain in Canada or move towards a future independence referendum. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has said she intends to vote for the province to remain in the country.
Smith also noted that separatist sentiment in Alberta had weakened as her government and Carney’s administration worked together to address the province’s concerns.
Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe also dismissed Musk’s suggestion, responding with a brief “No” on X.
Carney’s response reinforces his position that decisions concerning Canada’s unity and the future of its provinces should be made by Canadians themselves, rather than influenced by powerful outsiders.
