Meeting to decide Chonkolay's future

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Yet another attempt is being made by Dene Tha' Band members to have Chief Harry Chonkolay removed from office.

A meeting will be held next Thursday at the Assumption community hall in a bid to bring the matter to a head, said band member Joe Pastion. Coincidentally the meeting will be held one day after Chonkolay will receive an Order of Canada in

Ottawa by Governor-General Jeanne Sauve for his contribution to helping his band over the last 51 years. He is the longest-reigning Indian chief in Canada.

"We've been stalling with this leadership for some time now. It's been dragging since February. We're going to ask the chief to step down on the 19th." said Pastion.

Over half the residents at Assumption are unhappy with the leadership of Chonkolay, he said.

"We're willing to give him what he's asking for," said Pastion.

Chonkolay, 81, apparently would like a $40,000 annual pension if he does step down.

"We don't hate him but we want the way clear for a new leadership," said Pastion.

A new, strong leadership is needed to deal with issues like an outstanding land claim, he said.

"If he doesn't step down, he'll be thrown out. We don't want to do that to him," said Pastion.

A referendum on Chonkolay's leadership was postponed on a number of earlier occasions.

The band is divided in its support for the chief.

Opposition to his leadership is centered at Assumption, where most of the band members live.