Navajo Nation Leadership Faces Turbulence Amid Ethics Allegations
A whirlwind of controversy has enveloped the Navajo Nation as its council speaker, Crystalyne Curley, pushes for the removal of President Buu Nygren. This move follows a probe by a special prosecutor who has raised concerns over Nygren’s adherence to tribal ethics laws.
Special Prosecutor Kyle Nayback, representing Albuquerque, New Mexico, has formally lodged an ethics complaint in the Navajo Nation District Court, marking the culmination of a three-month investigative effort. The accusations leveled against Nygren are serious: misuse of public funds, nepotism, and inappropriate staff directives.
As Nayback recommends immediate removal, he also suggests severe penalties for Nygren, including a one-year salary forfeiture, restitution payments, and a potential five-year disqualification from holding public office.
President Nygren, who is navigating his first term and gearing up for a reelection campaign next year, firmly denies these allegations. He asserts that the claims are politically motivated, designed by Curley to wrest control of the presidency.
Recent events have added layers to this unfolding drama. Nygren’s decision to abruptly dismiss the tribe’s controller has led the Navajo Nation Council to label his actions as “unlawful.”
Vice President Richelle Montoya is not exempt from scrutiny. Curley’s legislative proposal seeks her removal as well, citing her failure to act on the alleged misconduct, despite having previously aired her concerns publicly and on social media platforms.
Curley has emphasized the council’s responsibility to uphold the integrity of the Navajo Nation’s governance. “Our laws are clear and mandate that leaders must uphold balance, truth and the highest ethical standards,” she stated. “When they do not, it is the Council’s responsibility to act on behalf of the Navajo people.”
The proposed legislation is currently undergoing a mandatory five-day public comment period. Following this, it will be reviewed by the Naabik’íyáti’ Committee, and if it progresses, the full Council will conduct a final vote.
In another development, the Navajo Nation attorney general has confirmed that an independent third-party investigation cleared President Nygren of allegations concerning sexual harassment against Vice President Montoya.
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