Assembly of First Nations Grapples with Leadership Crisis, Demands Election by March 2025

A resounding call echoed through the Assembly of First Nations Annual General Assembly this week, as First Nations leaders passed a pivotal resolution demanding a definitive election for national chief by March 2025. This critical move underscores a collective yearning for stability and decisive leadership at the helm of the organization, which has been embroiled in controversy and division.

Championed by Chief Sharleen Gale of the Fort Nelson First Nation in British Columbia, the resolution isn't merely about setting an election date.

It's a comprehensive plea for revitalisation, explicitly calling for an independent financial audit to ensure transparency and accountability within the AFN. Furthermore, it seeks to prevent any interim national chief from vying for the permanent role, aiming to level the playing field and restore trust in the electoral process.

The path forward has been fraught with challenges since the contentious ousting of former national chief RoseAnne Archibald in August 2023.

With Cindy Woodhouse-Nepinak stepping into the interim national chief role in December, the assembly has grappled with the profound question of how to navigate these turbulent waters and restore confidence in its leadership.

Addressing the assembly, Interim National Chief Cindy Woodhouse-Nepinak acknowledged the palpable need for stability, stating, “I recognize the importance of stability at this time.

I also recognize that it’s important to do it right.” While advocating for a measured approach to ensure a “sound” and “fair” electoral process, her leadership continues to face intense scrutiny amidst calls for immediate action. Amidst speculation, Woodhouse-Nepinak has maintained that she has not publicly declared her intention to seek the permanent national chief position, a point of contention within the resolution's clauses.

The AFN’s journey has been marked by a recurring pattern of leadership struggles, with this current crisis following a lineage of two previous national chiefs whose terms were cut short by various controversies.

This history underscores the urgent need for robust governance and a clear vision for the future, enabling the AFN to effectively represent and advocate for First Nations across Canada.

Regional Chief Kluane Adamek from Yukon poignantly articulated the gravity of the situation, declaring the AFN to be in an undeniable state of crisis.

She stressed the imperative for a new, unifying chief who can authentically represent and articulate the collective voice of all First Nations. Adamek emphasized the deep impact on communities, lamenting, “Our people are hurting in our communities, and the AFN has not taken care of the governance to ensure that we have a strong voice to advocate for them at the highest level.” Her words underscored the frustration felt by many over the organization’s perceived inability to effectively champion their cause.

The resolution garnered significant support, with numerous chiefs voicing their fervent desire for unity and an immediate forward trajectory.

The sentiment was clear: the time for internal strife must end, paving the way for a united front. B.C. Regional Chief Terry Teegee highlighted the alarming “palpable divisions” within the AFN, expressing particular concern given the imminent transition of the federal government. He underscored the critical need for a cohesive First Nations voice during such a pivotal political shift.

Teegee articulated a hopeful vision, stating, “I look forward to being unified in our voice and being able to work with all of our leadership across this country.” This sentiment encapsulates the deep-seated yearning for a revitalized, collaborative AFN capable of robust advocacy for First Nations communities nationwide.