NAN votes to remove Fox from role as Grand Chief

A closed door meeting by members representing the 51 First Nations which make up the Nishnawbe Aski Nation have ordered the removal of Derek Fox who has was voted in as Grand Chief in 2021.

A statement from Nishnawbe Aski Nation Deputy Grand Chiefs, Anna Betty Achneepineskum, Victor Linklater and Bobby Narcisse reads:

“On behalf of the leaders of Nishnawbe Aski Nation, we confirm today that Chiefs-in-Assembly have, by way of Resolution, ordered that Derek Fox be removed from the Office of Grand Chief due to his violations of the NAN Executive Council Code of Conduct while in office as Grand Chief.”

Fox was initially suspended in February of this year, for allegedly violating the organization’s Executive Council Code of Conduct, which prompted the launch of an internal investigation.

Following the suspension Fox denied the allegations and called for a snap election within 60 to 90 days.

A second investigation, conducted by a 3rd party, was ordered by NAN Chiefs during an emergency meeting in March.

“After review of the Investigation Report, and hearing from Derek Fox, NAN Chiefs-in-Assembly accepted the Report and directed that Derek Fox is to be removed from the position of Grand Chief. ”

As a result the position of Grand Chief has been declared vacant and a by-election will be called within the next 30 days in accordance with NAN by-laws.

The Chiefs have also directed AN to review the recommendations from the report and create an implementation process for their enactment.

“In view of the very challenging times faced by NAN leadership and staff, the Executive Council will work to strengthen existing staff supports (including culturally appropriate measures) with a view to ensuring a safe work environment for all at NAN.”