The ogema, or leader, of the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians of Michigan faces removal from office at a special hearing today.

The removal effort is part of a ongoing feud between Ogema Lee Sprague and the tribal council. Since his election in 2003, Sprague and the council have clashed on a number of issues, including management of the tribe's casino.

The tribal council eventually approved a resolution accusing Sprague of several improprieties and he now has to go to a hearing to defend himself. He can only be removed if seven of nine council members agree, according to the tribe's constitution.

Get the Story:
Tribal leader may be ousted (The Traverse City Record Eagle 4/28)
Tribal chief may be removed in power struggle (AP 4/27)

Relevant Documents:
Constitution of the Little River Band of Indians