Cherokee Nation Acting Principal Chief Sworn in on Sunday

Native News Network Staff in Native Currents. Discussion »

TEHLEQUAH, OKLAHOMA - S. Joe Crittenden took the oath of office as acting Principal Chief. He will hold the position until after the special election to be held on September 24.

S. Joe Crittenden took the oath of office as acting Cherokee Nation Principal Chief

Crittenden's speech promised a "seamless" transition until a new Chief is elected, saying he would work tirelessly to ensure that services to the Cherokee people would continue uninterrupted.

"Although my tenure as Principal Chief may be brief, I have been entrusted with the momentous responsibilities of this office," said Crittenden. "I vow to always do the right thing for the right reason."

As a crowd of hundreds of Cherokee Nation citizens, along with tribal dignitaries looked on, several newly&$45;elected Cherokee Nation officials were sworn into office Sunday in Tahlequah.

Meredith Frailey was sworn in as acting Deputy Principal Chief. Eight members of the Cherokee Nation's legislative branch were also sworn in as Tribal Council members, including Jodie Fishinghawk, Tina Glory-Jordan, David Walkingstick, Lee Keener Jr., Julia Coates, Cara Cowan Watts, Dick Lay and Janelle Lattimore Fullbright.

With the special election for Principal Chief six weeks away, Crittenden, who was elected as Deputy Principal Chief and Frailey, who currently serves as Speaker for the Tribal Council, will return to their original elected positions once a new Principal Chief is sworn in.

Frailey said she wants to encourage Cherokees to continue to fight for sovereignty and be prepared to do what must be done to ensure that.

"We must be willing to believe in ourselves and believe in our capacity to perform great deeds," said Frailey. "We are Cherokees and we don't ever give up."

The installation of Crittendon is the first time in its history an acting principal chief has occurred. The historic turn in events is due to the fact the June 25 election to elect the Principal Chief was thrown out by the Cherokee Supreme Court. The high court cited the lack of ability to determine results the election "with mathematical certainty or to certify a successful candidate for the Office of Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation."

posted August 15, 2011 6:10 am edt