Alberta NDP leader Naheed Nenshi says Peter Guthrie's letter to constituents is a telltale of the high level of unethical behaviour and incompetence within the Alberta government
In a statement issued Tuesday afternoon, Nenshi said Guthrie is right to call for an immediate public judicial inquiry into what he called the CorruptCare scandal.
“It shows the Smith government is desperately trying to cover up the CorruptCare scandal. They have no concept of fiscal competence and are wasting money across the board,” Nenshi states.
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In his letter, Guthrie also accused Premier Danielle Smith of dangerously flirting with Alberta separatism — a move he believes could undermine the federal Conservatives' chances of forming the next government under leader Pierre Poilievre.
“Recent developments in her political agenda raise legitimate questions about her intentions for Alberta's role within the Canadian federation — another area where I find myself at odds with her leadership,” Guthrie wrote.
Smith’s press secretary, Sam Blackett issued a response to the letter today, saying Guthrie is entitled to express his opinions.
“We’re going to let these processes conclude and await their recommendations,” Blackett said of the ongoing investigations.
Guthrie was ousted from the UCP caucus on April 16 after continuing to voice concerns about the government’s handling of the investigation into Alberta Health Services’ procurement practices. His dismissal followed his resignation as minister of infrastructure on Feb. 25.
Eleven days before stepping down from cabinet, CBC News reported on a leaked memo in which Guthrie urged Smith to remove Health Minister Adriana LaGrange while allegations made by former AHS CEO Athana Mentzelopoulos were under investigation.