A member of the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation (VGFN) has taken legal action by filing a petition in the Yukon Supreme Court to stop the upcoming election for chief and council. Erin Linklater, a former executive director of the First Nation from 2024 to 2025, has expressed concerns regarding the establishment of an election committee under a new election law passed earlier this year. Linklater claims that her inquiries have been met with silence from senior leadership and the returning officer.
The petition obtained by CBC News alleges that recent VGFN legislation, including changes to its governance act and a new election law, may be in violation of the First Nation’s constitution and governance act. It argues that these new laws could be invalid. Additionally, the petition states that according to the First Nation’s constitution, a general assembly should have taken place before the upcoming election, which is scheduled for Sept. 15.
Linklater emphasized the importance of the general assembly where the current chief and council are expected to report to citizens and be held accountable. The delay in holding the general assembly has raised concerns about transparency and accountability within the First Nation.
In response to the court petition, the VGFN referred to it as a “distraction” in a statement, while acknowledging citizens’ rights to pursue legal action. The focus of the VGFN remains on supporting the community of Old Crow and addressing critical issues during what they describe as a challenging period.
The election for the next chief will see three candidates vying for the position, with the incumbent Chief Pauline Frost not participating. Additionally, seven candidates are running for four council seats. A closed-door meeting is scheduled to take place on Sept. 15, coinciding with election day, between the involved parties and a judge.
Linklater’s petition includes a cease and desist letter sent by Ken Kyikavichik, the current executive director of VGFN, accusing her of making vexatious and defamatory statements. Linklater, however, maintains that her actions are those of an engaged citizen seeking transparency and equal access to information for all members.
Despite the challenges faced in the lead-up to the election, Linklater remains hopeful for clarification on the election committee formation and election law details. The lack of communication and transparency within the VGFN has led her to seek answers through legal channels, underscoring the need for open dialogue and accountability within the community.