Navajo Nation Leadership Clash Over Controller’s Dismissal and Funding

The Navajo Nation is facing a leadership crisis as tensions rise between President Buu Nygren and the Navajo Nation Council over financial control and executive actions. This conflict has intensified with the attempted dismissal of the tribe’s controller, which was later deemed unlawful, leading to significant unrest within the tribe’s governance structures.

A Controversial Attempt to Dismiss

The controversy began when Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren sought to remove Controller Sean McCabe from his position, a decision that the Navajo Nation Council quickly declared illegal. This decision prompted McCabe to express his concerns over the president’s actions, stating, “We are the largest Indigenous tribe on the planet, and this is happening. You don’t see this at a lemonade stand on the side of the road. President Buu Nygren, this is unacceptable. I hope you’re listening — I hope your people are listening.”

McCabe further explained to the Budget and Finance Committee that his team felt threatened under Interim Controller Alva Tom, leading to staff departures. He emphasized the risks posed to the financial integrity of the Navajo people, warning, “And what I believe is happening is dangerous. It’s dangerous to the Navajo people. It’s dangerous to the Navajo people’s money.”

Legal and Political Consequences

Hours after the initial attempt to dismiss McCabe, President Nygren appointed Alva Tom as interim controller. However, the Council challenged this move, questioning its legality. In response, Speaker Crystalyne Curley filed an injunction seeking to halt actions related to McCabe’s removal and prevent further misuse of executive power.

The Council demanded a legal opinion from Acting Attorney General Colin Bradley to clarify the lawful controller’s identity. Bradley’s response, however, remains confidential under attorney-client privilege for the time being.

Budgetary Concerns and Funding Shifts

In a related issue, President Nygren faced criticism for reallocating funds intended for the nonprofit 4 Corners K-9 Search and Rescue (4CK9SAR). Originally allotted $250,000 as part of the fiscal year’s budget, the funds were reduced to $20,000, with Nygren citing the need to cover travel and operational expenses for his office. He defended his actions by stating, “This statement is false and includes misinformation on the serious matter,” urging an end to spreading misinformation.

Budget and Finance Committee Chair Shaandiin Parrish expressed determination to ensure the funds are used appropriately, stating, “We will do everything within our authority to ensure that these funds are directed to the intended purpose and not the president’s travel.”

As the struggle between the executive and legislative branches of the Navajo Nation government continues, the Council and its leaders are turning to judicial intervention to resolve the disputes and ensure accountability and transparency in the tribe’s governance.

This story was produced by KJZZ, the public radio station in Phoenix, and published by KNAU as part of the Arizona Public Media Exchange.