Vote Counting Resumes Without Electoral Officer Amid Tensions

UPDATE: Tensions escalate in the Sioux Valley Dakota Nation as vote counting resumes today—July 14, 2023—without the electoral officer, Burke Ratte, who cited safety concerns. The counting of three locked ballot boxes, initially halted due to threats against election officials, resumed this afternoon, raising questions about the legitimacy of the process.

Earlier this week, Ratte suspended the ballot count after multiple threats were reported, including a disturbing incident where a group forcibly opened a locked door at the voting site. “It’s pretty bad. I mean this is just terrible,” Ratte stated, explaining the chaotic environment that prompted his departure.

At approximately 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, the Virden RCMP received a call for assistance to maintain peace amid escalating tensions. Ratte was escorted out of the community, leaving the ballot boxes under the supervision of First Nation safety officers. The boxes remained secured in the governance office, monitored by cameras until counting resumed today.

In a dramatic turn of events, a meeting convened by local elders led to the decision to proceed with the count, despite Ratte’s absence. Community member Jonah Wacanta confirmed, “Our elders got together and had a meeting. We are going to count the ballots.” The counting was broadcast live on the First Nation’s YouTube channel starting around 4 p.m., capturing the attention of community members eager for resolution.

As of 8:45 p.m. last night, preliminary results showed Jennifer Bone, a former chief, leading with approximately 160 votes against incumbent Vince Tacan, who received 85 votes. Tacan is currently facing serious allegations stemming from a 1984 sexual assault charge, adding to the election’s contentious atmosphere.

The decision to continue counting the votes without Ratte has raised legal questions. Ratte expressed uncertainty over the validity of today’s count, stating, “I’m the electoral officer and I’m not counting those ballots. I’m the one responsible for signing off on the results.” He noted that he has alerted the federal government about the unfolding situation but has not yet received a response.

The community’s response to Ratte’s departure was mixed. Some, like community member Tatedutawin Pompana, downplayed the threats, claiming that the situation was misinterpreted and that the security presence was sufficient. However, others expressed genuine concern about the environment during the election process.

As the situation develops, the Sioux Valley Dakota Nation remains at a crossroads. Community leaders and election scrutineers are now tasked with navigating the implications of today’s ballot counting. With Ratte’s future role uncertain, the integrity of the election hangs in the balance.

As this story unfolds, community members and observers are advised to stay tuned for further updates on the election results and any potential legal ramifications stemming from the irregularities in the counting process.