Navajo Nation President Cleared of Allegations Following Lengthy Probe
An extensive investigation into claims of misconduct involving Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren has reached a conclusion, with significant implications for the tribe’s leadership dynamics. This probe, spanning eight months, focused on allegations of sexual harassment brought forth by Vice President Richelle Montoya.
The outcome of the investigation, as detailed in a concise report from the Navajo attorney general, found that the incident described by Montoya from August of the previous year did not meet the definition of sexual harassment under the tribal policy manual governing elected officials and employees.
President Nygren addressed the situation on Monday, emphasizing the need for the tribe to focus on unity and progress. He expressed his view that the allegations had caused division within the Navajo Nation.
“Sadly, this has been nothing but a disgraceful power grab from the get-go by the vice president and her supporters,” Nygren stated. “Her false accusations and blatant lies all along have been an attempt to remove me as president. She continues to attend chapter meetings and agency council meetings sharing malicious lies with our people and continues to work closely with the ‘Recall President Nygren’ committee to attack, discredit and disparage me and my staff. Her actions have not only divided our Navajo Nation, but they hinder and undermine all the great work the administration has done and is doing.”
In a related development, Attorney General Ethel Branch announced the termination of the Tempe-based law firm initially tasked with conducting the investigation. Branch cited delays in receiving the investigation’s findings as the reason for the firm’s dismissal.
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