A group of Kiowa tribal members occupying the tribal headquarters say they are rightfully elected officials. They also dispute allegations of a violent takeover.

The group seized financial records in relation to the tribe's failure to comply with Bureau of Indian Affairs mandates. They said chairman Clifford McKenzie and vice chairman Hess Bointy were keeping them from office.

The pair are targeted for recall February 14. McKenzie accused the rivals of trying to shut down the tribe.

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Kiowa coalition seizes complex, cites BIA papers (The Oklahoman 1/9)
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Kiowa takeover defended, complex still under occupation (The Native American Times 1/9)

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Kiowa tribal headquarters reportedly seized (1/8)