Chief Greg Desjarlais says he will continue pursuing legal action after the Federal Court dismissed his application for an injunction but raised concerns about the process used to suspend him as Chief of Frog Lake First Nation.

In a public statement, Desjarlais said the court did not grant the injunction he had requested. However, he emphasized that the decision recognized what he described as significant issues surrounding the manner in which his removal from office was carried out. According to his statement, the court found his removal was not conducted in accordance with Frog Lake First Nation’s Election Code and acknowledged that a serious issue exists.

“That finding is significant and reinforces the importance of ensuring that decisions affecting our governance are made lawfully, fairly, and in accordance with the rules established by our Nation,” Desjarlais said.

He also stated that Justice MacDonald accepted many of the arguments he presented regarding the proper process for removing an elected Chief and rejected many of the arguments advanced by council. According to Desjarlais, the court also reaffirmed that he remains the Chief of Frog Lake First Nation and should be able to represent the Nation on policies and other matters, although he says he continues to be prevented from carrying out those responsibilities.

The statement comes after Frog Lake First Nations Council announced earlier this year that it had placed Desjarlais on paid administrative leave while an independent governance investigation proceeds.

Desjarlais said both the court proceedings and the independent investigations remain ongoing and that he will not comment on the specific allegations while those processes continue.

“I remain committed to cooperating fully and allowing those processes to proceed fairly and independently,” he said.

Desjarlais also described the personal toll the situation has taken, saying his reputation, ability to earn an income and standing within the community have all been affected.

“These are difficult circumstances for me and my family, and I ask that people remember that the relevant processes have not yet reached their final conclusions,” he stated.

Looking ahead, Desjarlais called on the Frog Lake First Nations Council to rescind the Band Council Resolution that suspended him and to ensure that any future actions comply with the Nation’s Election Code.

He warned that if the matter is not addressed, he intends to continue pursuing all available legal avenues.

“Above all, my focus remains on the people of Frog Lake First Nation,” Desjarlais said. “I am grateful for the support and encouragement I have received, and I remain committed to serving our Nation with integrity, respect, and dedication.”