Métis Nation British Columbia has set August 22 as the date for a provincewide by-election to choose a new president, following the removal of its former leader after an independent investigation found serious misconduct.
The organization says the election process is already underway, with nominations opening June 23 and closing July 13. A list of candidates is expected July 18, with online voting beginning August 8 and mail-in ballots sent out a day earlier.
The by-election comes after the Métis Nation B.C. Board of Directors voted to dismiss former president Walter Mineault, acting on the recommendation of former B.C. Supreme Court Justice Wally Oppal.
According to the findings, Mineault was removed following what were described as serious breaches of fiduciary duty, including conflicts of interest, intimidation, and conduct that the investigation determined met the threshold for dishonesty, disloyalty, or bad faith.
An independent report led by lawyer Robyn Gervais outlined a pattern of alleged behaviour, including pressuring staff and board members, publicly berating colleagues, and denying travel opportunities to dissenting directors.
The report also detailed specific incidents, including allegations that Mineault attempted to secure a performance contract for a family member’s band at an inflated price, and failed to disclose a family connection tied to a resolution that could financially benefit a relative.
Additional allegations included sharing confidential board discussions publicly and making funding commitments without board approval.
The decision to remove Mineault followed both the independent investigation and a recommendation from the Métis Nation B.C. General Assembly that he be dismissed.
Métis Nation B.C. is encouraging eligible citizens aged 18 and older to take part in the upcoming vote, which will determine new leadership and fill any additional board vacancies created by recent resignations.
Key dates:
- June 23: Nominations opened
- July 13: Nominations close
- August 8: Online voting begins
- August 22: Election day
The new president is expected to be announced later in August, once voting is complete.