Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist
GASPÉ – The newly elected Chief of the Micmac Nation of Gespeg, Yan Tapp, has resigned. The announcement was made through a brief press release on the Nation’s website on October 26.
This marks the third chief to resign within the last decade, following Terry Shaw in January and Manon Jeannotte in February 2019. “I have made the decision not to continue my path as Chief of our nation. Leaving a professional position is never an easy task and, in my case, stepping down early in my term is a choice that I want to make transparent with all of you,” Mr. Tapp wrote on social media, preferring not to give an interview to explain his decision.
Mr. Tapp was elected as leader on September 27 after a series of events following the September 8 election. Initially, the results showed Mark Sinnett as the winner with 144 votes to Mr. Tapp’s 143, while a third candidate, Céline Cassivi, received 122 votes. After three recounts, a tie occurred, with 143 votes to 143 votes.
According to the Nation’s Electoral Code, a tie is resolved through a draw. Following Mark Synnett’s withdrawal, Mr. Tapp was appointed to lead the Nation. However, it seems the beginning of his mandate was not easy and reflects the difficult relationships within the members of the Nation.
“Without going into details, many former members know the routine that accompanies each council mandate for our community: political and personal conflicts, as well as a sometimes toxic work climate,” recalls the resigning chief.
“Once again, another chief has left Gespeg prematurely. I remember that an elder from another community told me last year, and I quote: “You, the members of Gespeg, are very hard on your chiefs. It would be important for you to learn to better master these values,” mentions Mr. Tapp.
“During my short mandate, I have noticed a flagrant lack of respect for the chief of the Nation within the community itself. (He was asked things like) “I have never had a chief before… What does a chief eat in winter?” No comment…,” says the outgoing chief.
He has a desire to bring harmony to the Nation. “I sincerely hope that a future leader in Gespeg will be able to benefit from clearly defined roles, responsibilities and powers, that he will be able to choose his vice-leader, benefit from an adequate salary, have his own expense account and have a role not subject to the control of elected councillors. This would be beneficial for our nation!” he stated.
He indicates that he discussed with the electoral president on October 24 on the consequences of a contestation of the vote, but nothing would change under the current Electoral Code, “contrary to what is usually stipulated in penal codes,” he noted.
Nevertheless, he does not intend to give up. “I am contesting the electoral process, because the members were not adequately informed. I have always wanted and asked for a fair electoral process for all. In this sense, I refuse to continue with a council elected by acclamation,” said Mr. Tapp, who concluded his message with a union of forces.
“It is essential that we cultivate a climate of respect and kindness, both towards our leaders and among ourselves. It is by joining forces and working hand in hand that we can build a better future for the Micmac Nation of Gespeg. Let us continue to move forward with compassion and openness, ensuring that each voice is heard and valued,” concluded the resigning chief.
On January 26, former chief Terry Shaw resigned, citing family reasons. “This difficult decision is strictly motivated by personal and professional considerations. After much reflection, I have chosen to prioritize my family life above all else and to devote more time to my loved ones,” Mr. Shaw stated in the press release.
Terry Shaw was elected chief in February 2020, promising a “wind of change.” Before Mr. Shaw was elected, there was a crisis of confidence within the Nation over the reform of the Electoral Code. Serving as a councillor during this time in 2019, he had hoped to resolve this issue before holding elections.
Former Chief Manon Jeannotte also left her position early in February 2019 “for personal and family reasons” after three and a half years as the community’s leader. At the time, she denounced “an atmosphere of intimidation within the Nation” and filed a complaint with the Sûreté du Québec in January 2020, alleging “manipulation of the electoral list.”