Author: Donovan Quintero

Vice President Richelle Montoya delivered the State of the Nation address Monday before the 25th Navajo Nation Council after President Buu Nygren declined to appear, citing a temporary restraining order filed by Speaker Crystalyne Curley.

In a 13-page opinion, Acting Attorney General Colin W. Bradley ruled that the Nation’s long-standing one-fourth blood quantum requirement for tribal enrollment violates the Navajo Bill of Rights and traditional Diné principles of belonging.

The 25th Navajo Nation Council will open its five-day Fall Session on Monday, even as the Legislative Branch continues to operate with little to no budget.

Vice President Richelle Montoya said she is willing to be placed on leave or removed from office if that is what it takes to protect communities and restore accountability, as the Fort Defiance Agency Council advanced a no-confidence effort focused on President Buu Nygren.