The Federal Court has granted permission for five departing chiefs of a Mohawk community near Montreal to establish a temporary council following the sudden cancellation of an election more than two months ago.
In a recent ruling, the court authorized the five chiefs of the Mohawk Council of Kanesatake to oversee essential community services and handle administrative duties for a limited time. The formation of this caretaker council aims to prevent a leadership void in the wake of the cancellation of the scheduled August 2 election by the chief electoral officer.
The court decision highlights the importance of maintaining stability within the community, as the ongoing uncertainty and disruption caused by the cancelled election could have detrimental effects on residents. The chiefs have been facing challenges in accessing band facilities and their council email accounts since the election was called off.
Amidst internal divisions in Kanesatake, some members, including the former grand chief, have criticized the five chiefs for alleged power retention motives. The current chiefs have appealed to the court to determine the process and timing for a new election; however, a comprehensive hearing on this issue is not expected until 2026.
This ruling by The Canadian Press was originally released on October 17, 2025.
