Statement of President Begaye regarding the Navajo Nation Chapter Elections<br>

To the People of the Navajo Nation:

The Navajo People have spoken on the issue of reducing the size of the Navajo Nation Council. By a vote of 22,016 to 9,319 they have overwhelmingly said that they want a smaller council.

Even though, according to Navajo Election laws, the voter participation requirement was not met, the Navajo people have put the Navajo Nation government on notice that they want change. As president, I do not have the authority to restructure the Navajo government. I do, however, hove that responsibility, as a tribal official elected by all the Navajo people, to advocate on behalf of the Navajo people regarding this issue. I adopted the issue of government reform as part of my platform for my candidacy for the President of the Navajo Nation. In fact, the Begaye/MacKenzie administration adopted the issue of government reform in its 5 Strategic Directions. The 5 Strategic Directions continue to guide our administration in administering a better government for the people.

While Council members are elected at the chapter at the chapter level to represent their chapters, there comes a time when they too must represent the interests of the Navajo people. This is one of those times. I urge the Navajo Nation Council to heed the will of the people and work on addressing the question of its appropriate size. In particular, it is time for the Commission on Navajo Government Development to take up this issue and make positive recommendations for change. Under Title 2 of the Navajo Nation Code, the Commission on Navajo Government Development has the responsibility to “review and evaluate all aspects of the existing government of the Navajo Nation,” and to develop recommendations and proposals “to further enhance a Navajo Government that will perpetually accommodate the Navajo People both at the central government level and at the local level...”

Ultimately, this is a mater of k’e. It is the responsibility of the Office of the President and Vice President and of the Council to show respect for the wishes of the Navajo people.

Finally, to the Navajo people, visitors and guests of the great Navajo Nation, I wish you all a safe and happy weekend as you experience the great Navajo Nation Fair— “Naasgo’ Hozhoo’doo’2000.” With the occurrence of the annual Navajo Nation Fair, please remember to drive safely and to respect one another. This is a time for family and fun. May the Holy Ones guide you and protect you.

Respectfully,

Kelsey A. Begaye

President of the Navajo Nation

Donate to nhonews.com Report a Typo Contact
Most Read