An acting chief is now in place at the Moosomin First Nation.

Councillor Bradley Swiftwolfe takes over from Elliot Kahpeaysewat.

Kahpeaysewat was removed from office by Aboriginal Affairs for allegedly buying votes.

He was elected chief on January 22nd, 2011.

However, that election was appealed. Aboriginal affairs says it received evidence supporting the vote-buying allegations — so, after an investigation, Kahpeaysewat was removed.

The federal department says the band can hold a by-election for chief if it wants.  Aboriginal Affairs says it’s the First Nation’s decision, because it has enough remaining councillors to do band business.

The First Nation says it will continue governing itself with the current elected leadership until the next regularly-scheduled election — due to take place in January.