Special prosecutor files new ethics complaint against Nygren
PAGE – Special Prosecutor Kyle Nayback filed a second amended ethics complaint Monday, Feb. 2, 2026, in the Navajo Nation District Court alleging President Buu Nygren committed six violations of the Navajo Nation Ethics in Government Law tied to the 2025 budget process and related personnel decisions.
In the court filing, Nayback alleges that during the fall 2025 budget process, Nygren pressured the Navajo Nation controller to authorize transfers of restricted funds into the Office of the President and Vice President operating budget without legal authority. The complaint alleges the controller declined and cited legal and budget limits, then was terminated and replaced by someone who later approved the questioned transfers.
Nayback said the filing raises issues that go beyond a single budget move and go to how government money is handled.
“The integrity of the Navajo Nation government and its lawful fiscal processes is the lifeblood of the Navajo people,” Nayback said in a statement on Tuesday. “The formal ethics complaint filed yesterday alleges serious violations from the budget process and related personnel decisions. I am committed to addressing these allegations fairly through the judicial process.”
The complaint alleges the actions resulted in an improper reallocation of funds for other purposes without prior federal approval. It also alleges the conduct damaged fiscal controls and public confidence in the Navajo Nation government.
The filing cites alleged violations of Navajo Nation law that address conduct that reflects credit on the government and the misuse of public office, including actions that create an appearance of impropriety.
Under Navajo Nation law, the special prosecutor asked the court for remedies that can include removal from office, disqualification from future public service, forfeiture of compensation, a public reprimand and restitution. Any penalty would depend on the court’s findings.
The court issued a summons requiring Nygren to file a written response within 20 days of service, the release states.
Nayback emphasized that the complaint is an allegation, not a finding of guilt, and that Nygren is entitled to due process. The matter is pending litigation and the special prosecutor’s office stated it will not comment beyond what is contained in the public filings.
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