A final decision is still to be made with respect to corruption allegations in the April 20 band election on Mosquito, Grizzly Bear’s Head, Lean Man First Nation.
However, a recent investigative report into the election has concluded there is evidence supporting allegations that drugs were offered up for votes by one of the winning council candidates.
As reported by the News-Optimist in September the band election, which saw Daniel Starchief returned as chief, was appealed due to allegations of vote-buying and marijuana being offered in exchange for votes.
Since then, an investigation has taken place into the band election.
An investigation report was prepared by Robert Norton, of Norton Security Consulting, who was contracted by the federal Indigenous and Northern Affairs department to look in to the matter.
While allegations have been made against a number of individuals, including the chief, this particular report focused solely on the activities of band council candidate Joel Starchief.
The report, dated Nov. 7, concluded that allegations that Joel Starchief gave marijuana to three individuals were supported by the evidence gathered in the investigation; it further stated Starchief may have been elected by corrupt means by giving marijuana to voters in exchange for votes.
According to evidence outlined in the report, one voter stated he was offered marijuana to influence his vote on two occasions at his home. Another testified that he was given a “twenty chunk” of marijuana wrapped in tinfoil to vote for Starchief in the band election.
The report also stated Starchief may have also committed perjury contrary to the Criminal Code by completing a sworn affidavit denying the allegation.
The investigator also stated he was satisfied that cocaine was used to purchase ballots in the election as well.
The investigation report is now in the hands of the federal government. However, there is no final determination yet on whether the band election result will be overturned.
