Just weeks before the start of the provincial election campaign, Alberta Premier Daniel Smith announced restrictions on the questions journalists could ask during press conferences.
At a press conference on Friday, the leader of Alberta’s United Conservative Party (UCP) indicated that he wanted to limit members of the media to just one question, without the follow-up traditionally afforded to them.
When asked the reason for his decision, he replied, “Because it’s an election,” The Canadian Press reported.
Election campaigning is due to begin on May 1, mainly for the provincial New Democratic Party (NDP) and its leader Rachel Notley to oppose the PCU. The latter quickly responded to his conservative rival, noting that he and his party were ready to answer all questions put to them in a press conference.
“Leaders answer questions – that’s their duty,” the NDP leader tweeted. “If Daniel Smith isn’t willing to show Albertans, he shouldn’t be premier. Albertans are great.”
Also, Ms. Smith made the announcement as part of a media event hosted by the Alberta government, not at a campaign rally organized by the party.
Calgary’s former mayor and various legal experts also took the opportunity to condemn Daniel Smith’s decision, largely judging it as an undemocratic decision by the prime minister.
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