Elections Canada says its decision to switch to a write-in ballot for an Alberta by-election where Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre is vying for a seat was made to maintain the accessibility and integrity of the vote, after more than 200 candidates entered the race in protest.

Alberta’s chief electoral officer has issued a petition for a potential referendum question asking if the province should remain in Canada, clearing the way for signature collection to begin ahead of a fall deadline.

Elections Canada to require voters to write out their chosen candidate’s name in the ballot, as over 200 candidates are registered.