Bridge River Adopts Xwísten Election Code

Summary#

This order (SOR/2025-200) removes the Bridge River First Nation from the federal election rules in the Indian Act so the community can use its own election code. The change took effect when the order was registered on September 26, 2025, and the first election under the community code is set for January 11, 2026.

What it does#

• Repeals Item 14 of Part I of Schedule I to the Indian Bands Council Elections Order, removing Bridge River from the federal election regime under the Indian Act.
• Declares that future elections for the chief and councillors of Bridge River will be run under the community’s Xwísten Election Code.
• Fixes the date of the first election under the custom code at January 11, 2026.
• Ends federal involvement in running or interpreting those elections; responsibility for conduct and dispute resolution now rests with Bridge River and its code.

Who's affected#

• Members of the Bridge River First Nation.
• People eligible to vote and candidates in Bridge River’s band council elections.
• Indigenous Services Canada, which will no longer administer or interpret those elections for this band.
• Courts or other bodies may become involved if election disputes are not resolved under the community code.

Why it matters#

• It gives Bridge River control over how it chooses leaders. The government says this supports community self‑determination and can allow election rules that better fit local traditions and needs.
• The community carried out a ratification vote: 43 electors cast ballots, with 37 in favour, 3 opposed and 3 rejected. The government relied on that result in making the order.
• From a practical view, this changes who runs elections and how disputes are handled. The First Nation’s election code will determine voting methods, timelines, appeals, and accessibility.