Western separatist group applies for provincial party status

There are five political parties in Saskatchewan, but the sixth one could be added in time for the next provincial election.

The Saskatchewan branch of the western separatist movement, Wexit, announced on their Facebook page Saturday they have formally applied to become a registered party in the province, following a signature campaign that started in November. The separatist movement has been gained momentum since the federal Liberals were re-elected with a minority last October.

Eric Wall, one of the organizers of Wexit Saskatchewan, said they went above and beyond the requirements. “We handed in 3,599, so almost 1,100 signatures more than needed. That’s huge,” Wall said.

“That should help Elections Saskatchewan get through that process without any hiccups.”

According to Elections Saskatchewan, anyone wanting to form a political party needs signatures from at least 2,500 voters, 1,000 of whom must reside in at least 10 different constituencies with a minimum of 100 electors in each.

Wall said he was told that their application would be processed in two weeks. After which, they can begin registering candidates and selling memberships.

Elections Saskatchewan said it does not comment on pending applications. It said the Chief Electoral Officer will update the list of registered political parties on the Elections Saskatchewan website once an application is approved.