Investigation Clears Navajo President of Allegations Amidst Political Tensions
Navajo Nation’s internal political landscape continues to stir as a recent investigation concluded that President Buu Nygren did not engage in any criminal activity or harassment towards Vice President Richelle Montoya. This finding stems from allegations made by Montoya, who accused Nygren of intimidation and sexual harassment during an August 2023 meeting. Independent counsel Eric Dahlstrom of Rothstein Donatelli led the investigation.
According to the report, “Vice President Montoya’s recounting of the August 17, 2023, incident does not constitute sexual harassment under policies applicable to either Navajo Nation elected officials or employees covered by the Navajo Nation [Personnel Policies Manual]. Further, the facts reported would not constitute a violation of any criminal law of the Navajo Nation.”
Navajo Nation Attorney General Ethel Branch stated that the inquiry involved numerous interviews and evidence collection, concluding that no further investigation is needed. Branch expressed frustration over the duration of the investigation but affirmed the thoroughness of the process: “I am satisfied that no rock was left unturned in the search for evidence of any potential wrongdoing.”
Following the allegations, Montoya joined an effort to recall Nygren in April. In October, Nygren responded by removing Montoya’s responsibilities and urging her resignation, citing a lack of progress on tribal improvement projects.
In a related development, the Navajo Nation Council voted to remove Ethel Branch from her position as Attorney General. The decision came during a special session with 13 council members supporting the removal, while six opposed. The bill, introduced by Law and Order Committee Chair Eugenia Charles-Newton, a known critic of Nygren, was passed without discussion.
The reasons behind the council’s decision to oust Branch were not disclosed, although it coincided with the conclusion of the investigation into President Nygren’s conduct. The Navajo attorney general is appointed by the tribe’s president but must be confirmed by the council.
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