BIA not looking to intervene in Blackfeet Nation leadership feud

Wednesday, July 25, 2012  

The Bureau of Indian Affairs won't intervene in Blackfeet Nation leadership dispute, a spokesperson said.

The dispute stems from the removal of Jesse "Jay" St. Goddard from the tribal council last month. He claims he was removed illegally so his supporters voted to restore him to his seat.

The group then voted to remove Willie Sharp Jr. from his position as chairman of the council. William "Bill" OldChief, who was just elected earlier this month, was named chairman instead.

The BIA, however, says Sharp remains the rightful leader of the tribe. "Based upon the Blackfeet Constitution, we recognize the Sharp administration as the duly elected government of the Blackfeet people," spokesperson Nedra Darling told The Great Falls Tribune.

Sharp and his supporters continue to meet but both factions plan to get together on Friday to discuss their issues.

Get the Story:
Blackfeet tribal council splits; added security called to assist (The Great Falls Tribune 7/25)

Blackfeet Nation picks new council leaders after general election (7/16)