Métis Nation British Columbia suspends president amid complaints

SURREY, B.C. — The Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC) has suspended its president Walter Mineault.

In a press release issued by MNBC’s executive committee on Monday, August 18th, the committee said it made the decision “with great dismay” and cited several complaints alleging “behaviour [that was] inconsistent” with the organization’s policies.

The committee said it will launch an independent review of Mineault’s time as president to determine whether the suspension will be an outright dismissal.

Pending the investigation, Melanie Allard has been named interim president of MNBC.

“This is not an easy decision,” reads a part of the statement. “But it protects the integrity and reputation of our Nation.”

A resident of Dawson Creek, Mineault was first elected as MNBC president in 2024 following a stint as the organization’s vice-president.

With roots also in Kelly Lake and Pouce Coupe, his profile on the MNBC’s website says Métis politics has “always been a part of his life.”

Energeticcity.ca reached out to Mineault, and did not immediately receive a comment. This story will be updated with more information as it becomes available.

The full statement is available online at MNBC’s website.