Principal Chief Patrick Lambert of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, standing, is seen talking with tribal citizens. Photo: Chief Lambert
Leaders of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians began impeachment proceedings against Chief Patrick Lambert on Monday. Lambert, who took office in October 2015, tried to stop the hearing but the tribe's highest court said it could go forward. He claims he cannot get a fair trial before the tribal council. "We will present a solid defense for the people and will try our best to fend off the assault," Lambert said in a Facebook post on Sunday. The tribal council has accused Lambert of numerous violations of tribal law. The articles of impeachment say he entered into contracts, engaged in hiring decisions and took other actions without authority. The hearing is expected to continue on Tuesday. Lambert is to take the stand at some point, The Asheville Citizen-Times reported. Live and archived videos of the proceedings are available at EBCI Communications on Livestream. Read More on the Story:
Eastern Band chief's impeachment hearing underway (The Asheville Citizen-Times 5/22)
Chief Lambert releases forensic audit reports (The Cherokee One Feather 5/17)
Impeachment proceedings against Cherokee Principal Chief to proceed Monday (WLOS 5/16)
Impeachment proceedings rescheduled following ruling (The Cherokee One Feather 5/16)
Cherokee chief releases documents ahead of impeachment hearing (The Asheville Citizen-Times 5/16)
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