Chairman Michael Jandreau of Lower Brule Sioux Tribe passes


A sign on the Lower Brule Sioux Reservation in South Dakota. Photo from Rolf Blauert / Wikipedia

Update: Chairman Jandreau passed away on Friday. Coverage: The Sioux Falls Argus Leader | Associated Press | KELO

The longtime leader of the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe of South Dakota remains hospitalized but is said to be in stable condition.

Chairman Michael Jandreau, 71, was rushed to the hospital last Friday after suffering heart problems that have been linked to a case of pneumonia. Attorney Marshal Matz told The Sioux Falls Argus Leader that Jandreau has been receiving visitors, including other tribal leaders and Sen. John Thune (R-South Dakota).

In the meantime, Vice Chairman Kevin Wright has asserted control of the tribe. He has been at odds with Jandreau over the handling of tribal finances and other issues.

“This action will become effective immediately and will remain in effect until the chairman returns to the office and can resume his position,” Wright said in a press release, the Argus Leader reported.

A report from Human Rights Watch accused the tribe of failing to account for millions of dollars in funds received from the federal government. Jandreau, who has led the tribe for 36 years, and his allies have denied any wrongdoing.

Get the Story:
Lower Brule’s vice chairman takes control of tribe (The Sioux Falls Argus Leader 4/3)

Human Rights Watch Report:
Secret and Unaccountable: The Tribal Council at Brule and Its Impact on Human Rights (January 2015)

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