Leadership controversy continues within Chukchansi Tribe

Monday, March 12, 2012  

Members of the Picayune Rancheria of the Chukchansi Indians in California voted in a dispute election on Saturday.

Chairman Reggie Lewis, who was voted out of office in December, won a seat on the council. The tally was 447-64 according to news reports.

However, as many as 40 tribal members weren't allowed to vote. They were told that they couldn't enter the casino premises, where the election was held, because they were reportedly involved in a clash there late last month.

Lewis is due to be sworn back onto the council later this month. He will be joined by Morris Reid, Dora Jones and Dixie Jackson, who were elected in December.

Reid claims Lewis is illegally holding onto power.

Get the Story:
Chukchansi vote to fill tribal council vacancy goes to Reggie Lewis (The Fresno Bee 3/10)
Chukchansi Election Doesn't Settle Fight (KMPH-TV 3/11)
Chukchansi Tribe Election Stirs Up More Controversy (KSEE-TV 3/11)
Chukchansi election complete, controversy continues (KFSN-TV 3/11)

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