On Monday, the Coushatta Nation Appellate Tribal Court summarily dismissed claims of election irregularities brought by a small group of dissatisfied tribal members.
Last month, eight tribal citizens have filed a complaint in Coushatta Tribal Court, challenging the Tribal Election Committee's decision to allow Crystal Williams, Kelly Collins, and Kayla Guillory to appear on the May 31, 2025 ballot. Williams is running for tribal chairperson, while Collins and Guillory are seeking seats on the Tribal Council.
Monday's decision upholds a decision made on April 22, 2025 by the Coushatta Tribal Court.
“Nothing is more important than allowing our sovereign nation to resolve internal matters in a fair and equitable way,” said Crystal Williams, a candidate for tribal chairperson.
Fellow candidates for the Tribal Council, Kayla Guillory and Kelly Collins, also expressed their gratitude for the swift resolution: “We appreciate how Native American customs and the written laws of the Coushatta Tribe provided a prompt and just outcome, ensuring voters can choose from a full slate of qualified candidates.”
Attorney Jack K. Whitehead, Jr. commenting on the court’s decision, noted, “The Appellate Court clearly upheld the Tribal Court’s ruling, dismissing the appeal and affirming that the plaintiffs had no further recourse. On May 31st, voting members of the Coushatta Nation will have the opportunity to participate in a free and fair election.”
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