Political tensions rise at Sturgeon Lake

Since the release of the story last week, paNOW has learned that despite the tribunal’s order, Felix continues to work at the band office, has been collecting a pay cheque, and has even been holding meetings.

Felix’s lawyer, Ron Cherkewich, said Felix will respect the order if the tribunal can present a court order.

paNOW has also learned that Anita Parenteau has been appointed the band’s acting chief, although it is unclear who appointed her. Parenteau has been holding her own meetings. When called for comment, Parenteau declined, saying only that there was another side to the story.

A spokesperson for Aboriginal and Northern Development said they won’t get involved because the band is under its own custom election act.

Supporters of Felix calling for fairness.

A group of band members supporting Henry Felix are questioning why Councilor Donna Kingfisher is also not on suspension.

On March 3, 2015, Kingfisher pleaded guilty to a charge of impaired driving. The charge dates back to November, 2014.

According to an RCMP release, Kingfisher received a one year driving prohibition, a $1,000 fine, and a $300 surcharge.

Section 15.3 of the band’s 2009 election act reads, “in the event that an elected official is charged with an offence that may affect their ability to give effective leadership or bring disrepute to their person or the office including, but not limited to, fraud, violent crimes including murder, manslaughter and assaults of any kind, any sexual offences, any offences leading to corrupt morals, disorderly conduct, or offenses involving drugs or alcohol, he or she shall be immediately suspended without pay until the matter is determined by a court of competent jurisdiction.”

According to a letter, obtained by paNOW, Chief Henry Felix had informed Kingfisher that she was on suspension. Kingfisher however would be later reinstated.

Kingfisher has told paNOW she was given permission to keep working by the elders’ council.

Attempts to reach members of the council as well as the Election Tribunal have not been successful

Felix is scheduled to appear at Prince Albert Provincial Court on May 5. He has not yet entered a plea.

nmaxwell@panow.com

On Twitter: @nigelmaxwell

by Nigel Maxwell

Political tensions rise at Sturgeon Lake

What's Trending