First Nations group plans non-confidence motion against Shawn Atleo
Posted Jan 17, 2013 02:59:58 PM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
A group of First Nations chiefs are planning a non-confidence motion against Shawn Atleo, the National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations. There are concerns that could hurt the Idle No More campaign, and talks with the federal government.
It comes after a day of action that saw protesters block rail lines, border crossings and highways across the country.
Atleo has faced criticism since he sat down for talks with the prime minister last Friday, ignoring some calls for a boycott.
“I think this will hurt the efforts for the First Nations, and bring about animosity,” said Allan Adam, chief of the Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation.
Adam tells 1310News, this challenge to Atleo’s leadership has been in the works for a while by failed leadership contenders and their teams.
“This was all planned out prior to the AFN meeting…back in December,” Adams said. “I think there are a lot of people behind the scenes that are…pulling the strings, right now, from what I gather.”
A spokesperson for the Aboriginal Affairs minister says the government will continue to work with the AFN leadership, and with aboriginal leaders.
Atleo is currently on sick leave, but a vote would need 60 per cent support to kick him out of office.
