Challenges to Ute election are rejected

Challenges to the April 10 election for three seats on the Ute Tribe Business Committee have been rejected by the tribe's election commission.

Stewart Pike challenged the election of Uintah Band member Curtis Cesspooch and Uncompahgre Band member Steven Cesspooch. Incumbent committee member Richard Jenks Jr., who failed to win re-election, also filed a challenge, alleging the election process was flawed.

The two had until Monday, April 16, to file their challenges to have them heard in Ute Tribal Court.

Pike alleged that Curtis Cesspooch was ineligible to run. Curtis Cesspooch rebutted the accusation.

Pike's challenge to Steven Cesspooch's winwas also rejected.

Jenks' opposition to the election also dealt with alleged computer problems.