Disputes arise among members of the Zagime Anishinabek following the recent election's outcomes
Zagime Anishinabek Nation Elects New Chiefs and Council, but Controversy Arises
In a historic move, the Zagime Anishinabek Nation elected new chiefs and council on September 6, 2025, in accordance with their own election act. However, the Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) has yet to obtain a ministerial order to formally remove the nation from the First Nations Elections Act, causing a bit of controversy.
The Zagime Anishinabek Election Act, which was voted on by the nation in April, allows for electronic voting, candidacy requirements based on member feedback, and a less costly appeal process. The election was conducted fairly and transparently, as evidenced by the significant increase in voter turnout.
The Ministry of Indigenous Affairs Canada conducted a review process regarding the election of the new chiefs and council. A decision is expected soon, though the exact timing has not been specified in the available information. The department is working with the nation to support the transition from the First Nations Elections Act to the Zagime Anishinabek Election Act.
Cameron Sangwais, a member of Zagime Anishinabek, stated that roughly 20 members of the nation are disputing the election outcome. Sangwais and a group of concerned members traveled to Regina earlier in the week to deliver a letter directly to ISC regarding their concerns. In Regina, the group learned about possible options to appeal the decision made by ISC.
ISC does not have the authority to investigate or decide on election matters under the First Nations Act or custom codes. The department has recognized the named chiefs and councillors as being elected, but a ministerial order to formally remove the nation from the First Nations Elections Act has not yet been obtained.
Lynn Acoose, the chief of Zagime Anishinabek, is supportive of the election results. Sangwais expressed a desire for other nations to learn from this experience and for amendments to be made to prevent similar issues from happening again. The group is hoping to determine the legitimacy of the election and feels that the electoral term of the current chiefs and council has expired.
The chiefs and council have acknowledged members' concerns and welcomed respectful engagement through a Facebook post. Sangwais also mentioned that the group wants to ensure the legitimacy of the election and feels that the electoral term of the current chiefs and council has expired.
As the situation unfolds, the Zagime Anishinabek Nation awaits a decision from the Ministry of Indigenous Affairs Canada. The nation's new chiefs and council remain in place, but the future of their leadership is uncertain. The nation and its members hope for a swift and fair resolution to this complex issue.
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