Three rival leaders of the Picayune Rancheria of the Chukchansi Indians of California remain at odds despite a meeting that sought to bring their factions together.

About 300 members met on Saturday for a meeting that was called by Reggie Lewis. They voted to lift the suspensions of four council members, including rival leader Morris Reid.

Reid, however, said Lewis lacked the authority to call such a meeting. And so did Nancy Ayala, who claims to be the rightful leader of the tribe.

The Bureau of Indian Affairs has recognized Ayala as chair and Lewis as vice chair but the decision is being appealed.

Get the Story:
Rift mended at Chukchansi tribal meeting, but who runs tribe unclear (The Fresno Bee 9/17)

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