Na-Cho Nyak Dun First Nation chief fired by council

Ed Champion, the Chief of the Na-Cho Nyak Dun First Nation based in Mayo, Yukon, has been removed from office according to theFirst Nation's council.

A release posted on the First Nation's website says the council dismissedChampion on Jan. 22, less than three years into his four-year term.

According to the release, Nancy Hager has been appointed interim chief until an election is held on March 5.

"Change is sometimes difficult but is sometimes needed," Hager says in the release.

No specific reason is given for Champion'sdismissal.

The council cites Section 14 of Na-Cho Nyak Dun Government Act which says in part that every council member whose conduct or behaviour may call into question the dignity or integrity of the member, may be subject to discipline up to and including removal from office.

Champion said last week the council's decision to hold an election was not valid and he had no intention of giving up his office.

Calls by CBC News to both Champion and the acting chief were not returned.