BIA wades into leadership dispute within Chukchansi Tribe

Tuesday, June 11, 2013  

The Bureau of Indian Affairs has identified Nancy Ayala as the leader of the Picayune Rancheria of the Chukchansi Indians in California.

The BIA says Nancy and six other leaders make up the tribal council. But Reggie Lewis, whom the BIA identified as vice chair, claims he is the leader and has a lawsuit pending in federal court.

A third faction, led by Morris Reid, also claims control of the tribe. He plans to fight the BIA's determination, The Fresno Bee reported.

The factions led by Ayala, Lewis and Reid have been battling for control for months.

Get the Story:
BIA enters Chukchansi dispute, says Nancy Ayala is tribal leader (The Fresno Bee 6/11)

Chukchansi Dispute: Rival factions fight it out in the media (05/16)
Faction calls on BIA to intervene in Chukchansi Tribe dispute (04/29)
Rival faction of Chukchansi Tribe disputes outcome of petition (4/25)