The Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC) has announced the removal of president Walter Mineault due to an alleged breach of his fiduciary duty. Following a board of directors’ vote, an election will be conducted to select Mineault’s replacement, with vice president Melanie Allard assuming the role of interim president in the meantime. The decision, based on an independent review of Mineault’s conduct and advice from the Métis Nation Governing Assembly, was made public in an April 9 press release.
Mineault, residing in Dawson Creek, B.C., had previously faced suspension from his presidential duties in August 2025, only to be reinstated in December of the same year. According to the press release, a report detailing Mineault’s alleged misconduct, prepared by lawyer Robyn Gervais and independently assessed by Wally Oppal, recommended his dismissal for various infractions, including breaches of fiduciary duty and conflicts of interest.
Among the accusations leveled against Mineault are claims that he prioritized familial interests over those of MNBC, attempting to influence the hiring of his brother’s band by MNBC staff. Additionally, it is alleged that Mineault pushed for a resolution benefiting a property co-owned by his third cousin, without disclosing their relationship to the board. Further accusations include verbal abuse towards staff and directors, inappropriate comments towards a female director, and unauthorized financial commitments.
The document outlining the allegations was presented to Mineault during a closed session of the Métis Nation Governing Assembly, where he reportedly chose not to respond to the claims. Oppal, in his assessment, recommended Mineault’s dismissal, citing the need to maintain the board’s integrity amid the conflict of interest posed by current directors’ involvement in the complaint process. Mineault has declined immediate interviews and expressed the need to consult with his legal counsel before providing further statements.