A new era: Celebrating the inauguration of the National Government of the Red River Métis

July 20, 2026

A look at the newly appointed MMF Caucus

^{MMF elected officials, dignitaries, and community members gathered on July 14 to celebrate the newly elected Red River Métis Government.}

The summer heat did not stop the National Government of the Red River Métis from celebrating its democratic process. On July 14, government officials and dignitaries gathered for the Manitoba Métis Federation's (MMF) inauguration ceremony to witness the swearing in of the new Caucus.

While several Cabinet Members have returned to their elected positions by acclamation, including MMF President David Chartrand who will be serving his ninth term, the Red River Métis Government will also be welcoming new representatives for the Southwest, Interlake, and The Pas Regions.

I look forward to engaging with both the returning leaders and new ones, as we take on the awesome responsibility of shepherding our Nation into a brighter future. This is the work I have dedicated my life to accomplishing. Together with this Caucus, there is no doubt in my mind that we will achieve good things for our Citizens. While we will never truly know what we would have accomplished if we'd been allowed to live and govern ourselves as a people from the beginning, today we are clearly advancing the important work of finding our rightful place in Canada's Confederation. - MMF President David Chartrand.

 

The official swearing-in was presided over by the Honourable Anita Neville, P.C., O.M., Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba, who spoke to the importance of advancing understanding, healing, and reconciliation while building strong partnerships for a better future and highlighted the significant role the MMF will play in that journey.

"This evening marks an important moment in the life of your Government and of your Nation... ballots have been cast, votes have been counted, and a new chapter in the history of the Manitoba Métis Federation begins tonight," said the Lieutenant Governor.

Attending dignitaries and community members included the Honourable Renée Cable, Minister of Advanced Education and Training for Manitoba; His Worship Scott Gillingham, Mayor of Winnipeg; RCMP Superintendent Scott McMurchy; and Winnipeg Chief of Police Gene Bowers.

^{During his speech, President Chartrand discussed the advancements he hopes to see over this next term - including the Red River Métis Self-Government Recognition and Implementation Treaty being adopted into the Canadian Constitution.}

In his remarks, President Chartrand recognized this as a new era for the Red River Métis - one that he looks forward to leading. He also acknowledged the importance of hearing the perspectives of Citizens, because the government works for the people.

"I attended platform meetings in different Regions during the election for a purpose," he said. "I wanted the people to know where I plan to take them in the next four years. That's going to be important for people to know, that I have a vision to where I believe we need to go... I also wanted to hear their opinions and have their voices heard."

President Chartrand spoke to the confidence he has in Red River Métis Citizens and the choices they have made when selecting their leadership.

"I look forward to engaging with both the returning leaders and new ones, as we take on the awesome responsibility of shepherding our Nation into a brighter future. This is the work I have dedicated my life to accomplishing," said the President. "Together with this Caucus, there is no doubt in my mind that we will achieve good things for our Citizens. While we will never truly know what we would have accomplished if we'd been allowed to live and govern ourselves as a people from the beginning, today we are clearly advancing the important work of finding our rightful place in Canada's Confederation."

Following the inauguration, Ministers were selected for each MMF Department and Portfolio - a responsibility President Chartrand doesn't take lightly.

"Some of those budgets are $100 million and more and appointed Ministers are responsible now to do what's best for our people on what they hear, what they see, and what they believe the policies are guiding them to do... they have responsibility to do the best they can for the betterment of our people," he said. "I don't choose these positions lightly. I think about who I'm putting in and why, what skill I believe they have, and what skill I believe we need, and how it's going to advance our Nation."

Newly elected to the Southwest Region as a Regional Executive, Minister Wesley Hannah is looking forward to representing his Region at the national level while taking on these new challenges.

"I am very happy to be involved with this. I have been working with the Local level for many years and now I'm just happy to be getting to that next level and [seeing] what I can learn," he said.

As the events of the week came to a close and elected officials assumed their new responsibilities, the inauguration and first Cabinet meeting marked the beginning of a new era for the MMF - one that continues its commitment to serving Citizens and advancing the priorities of the National Government of the Red River Métis for years to come.

Click Here to see your new Cabinet.

If you are interested in learning more about the MMF's Government structure or seeing who is representing your Region, explore the government tab on the MMF's website.

 

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