Indian Act Band Elections In Line For Overhaul

Indian Act Band Elections In Line For Overhaul

Tuesday, October 05, 2010 at 15:05

Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations Chief Guy Lonechild says it’s time to move forward with changes to First Nations elections — and move away from Indian Act elections.

Indian Affairs recently announced it is working with First Nations on the East Coast and in Manitoba to update and reform Indian Act election policies across the country.

Lonechild says the Indian Act electoral system does not make leaders accountable to First Nations communities.

He says the FSIN’s Treaty Governance department can help bands reform their election process to one that’s more transparent and accountable to community members.

Lonechild adds First Nations in the province who already have their own custom election act are to be commended.

A total of 247 First Nations across Canada hold elections according to the Indian Act system.