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Vancouver, British Columbia, August 21, 2025 — The BC Métis Federation (BCMF) is responding to the suspension of Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC) president Walter Mineault. The suspension follows complaints about his behaviour and marks the second MNBC presidential suspension in four years — the fourth such incident since 2000, highlighting a troubling pattern of instability.
BCMF was established in 2011 as a response to ongoing governance failures at MNBC. Fourteen years later, these problems remain on full public display, undermining MNBC’s effectiveness and harming the reputation of Métis people across the province.
While BCMF has built success through transparency, entrepreneurship, and hard work, MNBC remains mired in crisis and dependent on government funding. Moreover, MNBC continues to misrepresent itself as the sole representative of all Métis in BC, while denying services to BCMF members and Partner Communities.
BCMF is deeply concerned that, despite repeated controversies, MNBC continues to receive exclusive taxpayer funding directed only to its citizens, rather than all Métis in British Columbia. In contrast, BCMF offers a progressive and transparent alternative, guided by principles of ethics, responsibility, and accountability — yet receives little government support.
“Sadly, we are not surprised by this latest political fiasco,” said Keith Henry, BCMF President. “This outcome is entirely predictable. What is hard to understand is how government partners continue to view MNBC as a logical investment for Métis people. BCMF leadership is not perfect, but we want to be clear: we are not MNBC, and we will not be associated with their ongoing crisis of governance. These failures demean all Métis people in BC.”
BCMF urges Métis people across British Columbia to examine the history and record of both organizations. By comparing governance, transparency, and accountability, individuals can determine which organization truly represents their interests and values moving forward.
About BCMF
The BC Métis Federation (BCMF) is a non-profit association that works with Métis communities to ensure the well-being of BCMF members. Through grassroots efforts, BCMF advocates on behalf of its many members living all across the province.
Media Contact
Keith Henry, President, BC Métis Federation
P: (778) 388-5013
E: K.Henry@BCMetis.com
