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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2001

A federal judge won't rule for now who is in charge of the Seminole Nation of Oklahoma for now, pending the outcome of another case affecting the tribe.

Ousted Chief Jerry Haney has sued the tribe, hoping to prevent other elected officials from taking over. He also sued the BIA to force recognition of his authority.

U.S. District Judge Frank Seay said he would wait to hear the outcome of Seminole Nation v. Norton before he would rule. The case is pending in federal appeals court the District of Columbia.

In response to yesterday's decision, Chief Ken Chambers released a statement saying he was pleased. "Today’s decision vindicates our belief that the law is on our side and that, in the end, the Seminole people will prevail," he said.

Get the Story:
Judge puts off ruling in Seminole tribal case (AP 12/20)

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Ousted Seminole leader sues tribe, BIA (12/14)
Black Seminole issue still divisive (10/29)