Northern Saskatchewan’s MP says he shares the concerns of members of the Ahtahkakoop Cree Nation about its recent chief and council election.
In a release, Rob Clarke says he met with band citizens this past Saturday, who relayed concerns about the handling of mail-in ballots, activities at the polls, and the general handling of ballots from polling stations.
Clarke notes Aboriginal Affairs received a formal complaint before the election about the choice of chief electoral officer.
He says he received a petition signed by 400 band members who were concerned with the officer’s ties to the incumbent chief — but Clarke says election officials can only be replaced with the blessing of chief and council.
The group of concerned citizen is planning to file an appeal to have the election overturned and is in the process of gathering affidavits from witnesses.
Band officials have not been available for comment.