Message to Citizens from the Champagne and Aishihik First Nations Council

Background information 

• The CAFN election by Citizens of the First Nations leadership is of the utmost importance to our nation, as laid out in our highest law, the Champagne and Aishihik First Nations Constitution (2022).
• The Election Board was appointed by the CAFN Council to oversee the integrity and administration of the 2026 election under the CAFN Election Rules and Regulations and in keeping with our laws, the Constitution and Government Administration Act. The Chief Returning Officer and Adjudicator were subsequently appointed by the Election Board to carry out the responsibilities assigned to that position under the Regulations.
• CAFN supports the roles of the Election Board, Chief Returning Officer, and Adjudicator in carrying out their respective responsibilities in accordance with the Election Rules and Regulations. Election officials must be able to perform their roles independently and without harassment, intimidation, or inappropriate interference.
• Concerns may arise during an election. Candidates and electors have the right to raise those concerns through the processes established under the Election Rules and Regulations. At the same time, concerns should be raised respectfully and through the appropriate channels.
• The pause of the election will allow time for the appointment of new Election Board and the necessary transition and preparation before the election process resumes.
• CAFN thanks the Election Board, Chief Returning Officer, Adjudicator, candidates, electors, and Citizens for their patience and cooperation as this work is undertaken.