Metis Nation of Alberta citizens, members and friends 

I’ve been deeply concerned regarding the omission clarity and transparency regarding certain developments involving Metis Nation of Alberta!!

With 

To:
The Citizens’ Council of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government,
Judicial Tribunal of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government,
Indigenous Services Canada,
Office of the Auditor General of Canada

Subject:
Petition for Independent Investigation and Temporary Administrative Leave of President Andrea Sandmaier and Senior Executive Officer Aaron Barner

We, the undersigned Citizens of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government, respectfully submit the following petition:

Whereas:
 • Associations between senior leadership and individuals involved in provincial procurement processes have raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest.
 • Governance processes within the Otipemisiwak Métis Government have been criticized for a lack of transparency and potential impartiality issues.

Therefore, we request:
 1. Immediate Administrative Leave:
That President Andrea Sandmaier and Senior Executive Officer Aaron Barner be placed on temporary administrative leave pending the outcome of an independent investigation.
 2. Independent Investigation:
That an independent body be appointed to investigate the concerns outlined above, with full access to relevant documents and the authority to make recommendations.
 3. Transparency and Accountability:
That the findings of the investigation be made publicly available to ensure transparency and restore trust among the Citizens.

Jurisdictional Oversight:
 • Internal Oversight Excluded:
Due to the conflict of interest arising from President Sandmaier’s involvement in appointing members of the Judicial Tribunal, this body shall not preside over or administer the investigation or any related disciplinary process. Its involvement would compromise the integrity and impartiality required.
 • External Oversight Required:
We call for the intervention of:
 • Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) — to oversee governance standards under the self-government recognition framework.
 • Office of the Auditor General of Canada (OAGC) — to examine financial conduct and procedural fairness, particularly related to procurement, funding, and governance integrity.

We further request that a third-party Indigenous-led governance accountability firm or legal body be engaged to ensure transparency, cultural safety, and independence.

We believe that these actions are necessary to uphold the principles of good governance, transparency, and accountability within our Nation.

Respectfully submitted,