Federal Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations Discusses AFN Lawsuit and Relationship with Ottawa

Former AFN Chief Launches Lawsuit Against Advocacy Group

In a surprising turn of events, former national chief of the Assembly of First Nations (AFN), RoseAnne Archibald, has launched a lawsuit against the advocacy group and its executive for defamation and breach of contract. Archibald, who was ousted from her position last July, alleges that the AFN and its executive engaged in illegal and unlawful actions against her, including suspending her as national chief.

The statement of claim, filed this month, details Archibald’s allegations that the executive, led by current national Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak, orchestrated a campaign to sideline and ultimately oust her from her role. This comes after Archibald called for a forensic accounting firm to review the organization’s books following her election.

Federal Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, Gary Anandasangaree, refrained from commenting on the legal case, stating that Ottawa’s role is not to govern the internal accountability of the AFN. Anandasangaree emphasized that the AFN is a trusted partner for the federal government, with accountability mechanisms already in place through funding agreements.

While the AFN has chosen not to comment on the matter until it is resolved through legal channels, Anandasangaree highlighted the importance of the relationship between the federal government and the advocacy group, built on a foundation of trust.

As the legal battle unfolds, the future of the AFN and its leadership remains uncertain. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published on June 20, 2024. Alessia Passafiume, The Canadian Press.