November 8, 2008

Dear Editor:

Hello Comanche. What I am about to write and hope all enrolled Comanches read will disturb many but I believe it must be said. This is my opinion.

The Comanche "Ghost Writers" practice a high spirit political movement aimed at being critical of our government. Some even call it corrupt, dishonest etc. These guys may well have brought to light important matter that all Comanches need to be aware of. For over a year, I have talked to many tribal members including the elected CBC, concerning issues facing our people. My conclusion is: Comanches cannot manage their own monies. Comanches cannot account for program activity. Comanches cannot discuss problems without shouting and character assassination taking place aimed at degrading individuals. We don't have have a sovereign government. What is being created is a teenage level club with no direction, no goals, no objectives and many with no conscience. We make rules to fit the occasion. CBC cannot control meetings and allow for anyone to speak at any moment. The result is several people talking at the same time and the chairman who supposed to maintain order, allows this to take place.

What I see taking place is personnel being hired who are either under qualified or over qualified for the job they are performing for the people. There is no valid reason for over spending monies that have been approved by either the people or a funding agency through a "638" contract. Program directors who allow this to happen should be replace or placed on notice to either shape up or be fired for neglect of duties. Since my days as a CBC member (1992, 93 and 94) monies have been put into the same pot and used for purposes not related to that department whose monies were earmarked for. Now I see this method was not good.

This so called "audit" takes many forms. It ought to be evidence to begin a reform movement at the Comanche tribal headquarters, Lawton. With an election coming up in 2009, Comanches need leadership very badly. I place blame on the elected CBC particularly the chairman for allowing problems of enrollment, financial accountability, and the tribe being placed as "high risk" according to the BIA. The Bureau of Indian Affairs provides for contract funds to be administered and accounted for. Thus, no contract funds available to serve the needs of the people until our accountability factor is corrected. It's true what the ghost writers are saying. Our government is being supported totally by our casino. We are our own worst enemy!

So I say to all my relatives enrolled as Comanches, to take special interest for the year 2009. The new chairman must be above approach of any negative background. This person's resume must contain experience at business management, finance and how to work with people. We don't need a full time public relation person who puts business on the backburner when problems at home need attention. Honesty, intregity and willingness to stay home and work for the people are other immediate qualifications. Don't forget, being able to talk direct to the Comanche membership and inform them on issues of housing, health and education just to name a few.

Does such a person exist among our Comanche Nation?

Elton Yellowfish