Can Chretien unite Canada?
By David Crary, Associated Press writer OTTAWA — Prime Minister Jean Chretien insisted yesterday he could govern Canada effectively despite the prospect of rancorous five-way debates in a Parliament fractured along regional lines. Quebec separatists disagreed, saying their push for independence would take on new urgency because the western-based Reform Party — which opposes any special status for Quebec — was now the main opposition. Reform’s new role “will radicalize politics,” said Quebec’s separatist premier, Lucien Bouchard. “This party was elected on the back of Quebec. It’s been attacking all Quebeckers, whether federalist or sovereigntist.” Mr. Chretien, who barely survived a close race against a separatist in his own Quebec district, tried to find a bright side in the outcome of Monday’s election. His Liberal Party lost 19 seats, emerging with a narrow majority of 155 seats in the 301-member House of Commons. “When you have a majority and you have four parties located in dif
