Muscogee (Creek) Citizens Circulating Petition To Impeach Chief

A grassroots effort is underway as some Muskogee (Creek) Nation citizens are working to get Chief George Tiger out of office.

The tribal council voted unanimously last week to ask Tiger to resign after a deal they said he made behind their backs that would've allowed another tribe to build a casino in Creek territory.

He hasn't resigned, so some Creek citizens are circulating an impeachment petition.

Wednesday night it was standing room only as the group decided how to get the petition to as many Creek citizens as possible across the United States, some even in California.

"We had to list ten reasons, but we listed 13," Shelly Harjo-Brandy said.

She explained to the crowd the allegations on the impeachment petition.

Those who want Tiger out of office said the petition highlights bribery, embezzlement and treason.

The tribal council said it's more than just the contract the tribal council said Tiger signed that would've allowed the Kialagee Tribe to build a casino in Creek territory.

3/11/2015 Related Story: Creek Tribal Council Asks Chief George Tiger To Resign

"It is just one of those things that for betterment of tribe he should resign," Earl Kelly said.

Last week, Tiger responded in a letter on the tribe's website saying "I can state categorically that I have acted at all times in accordance with our constitution and the best interests of all Creek citizens."

3/13/2015 Related Story: Creek Chief Releases Statement, Says Kialegee Deal Was Not Secret

But, for the group, that isn't enough. Many said they feel betrayed by someone they trusted.

"Now it's put me on the spot because I supported him. It upsets me cause my credibility. I've been asked why did you tell me to vote for this guy," Kelly said.

The petition needs signatures from 20 percent of registered tribal voters, which is a little more than 3,200, but the group hopes to get 4,000.

"Hopeful. For the first time I'm very hopeful that people are looking at the truth about the people we've elected as leaders and we want a positive change," Leon Hamilton said.

They now have 60 days to get as many signatures as possible, and if they get the amount needed it heads to tribal council who has the final say.