Factionalism In Listuguj?

Listuguj recently held their elections to elect a Chief and 12 Councillors. Throughout the process, many community members voiced their concerns regarding the perceived "factionalism" in Listuguj. I've been thinking about this and have done some research on the topic so that I can have a better understanding of this term "factionalsim". This is what I found out; however, it is by no means exhaustive.

Factionalsim is a conflict between parties vying for political power or control. Moreover, it is used for historical or political power. This seems to be the case in Listuguj. One could say there are two factions in our "community" each represented by a group of families. This side or that side, if you want. It is difficult to be neutral in Listuguj. Indeed, our community is so political, but then again, aren't we as Native people, political the moment we are born?

Another definition I came across is two value systems that are opposed to one another fundamentally. One is rooted in traditional teachings, structures social and cultural relations; the other, imposed by the colonial state, structures politics. The latter's intent has always had the intention to destroy the native people.

Until we can come together in a cohesive group, to rebuild our sense of togetherness and squash factionalsim it will be difficult to build a common vision and perspective. We need real willingness to work along those lines, but factionalism stands in the way.