FORT DEFIANCE, Ariz. (AP) - The Latest on the Navajo Nation inauguration (all times local):
2 p.m.
Jonathan Nez has been sworn in as president of the Navajo Nation.
Nez delivered a message Tuesday of hope, resilience and change, of breaking old ways of thinking to move the tribe forward.
He and Vice President Myron Lizer took their oaths of office at an indoor sports arena in Fort Defiance, north of the Navajo Nation capital.
The ceremony was a mix of traditional Navajo and Christianity, reflecting the men’s beliefs that tribal philosophy and God will help guide their administration.
Nez says change presents an opportunity for tribal leaders and Navajos to work together, and to incorporate the ideas of Navajo youth.
Thousands attended the inauguration, including other tribal leaders in Arizona.
Nez and Lizer easily won November’s general election to lead the tribe for the next four years.
12:01 a.m.
Jonathan Nez will be sworn in Tuesday as the next president on the country’s largest Native American reservation.
He and Vice President-elect Myron Lizer will take the oath of office at an indoor sports arena in Fort Defiance, north of the Navajo Nation capital.
The two easily won November’s general election to lead the tribe for the next four years.
Outgoing President Russell Begaye did not advance beyond the August primary election.
Nez was raised in Shonto and has served as the community’s vice president, as a tribal lawmaker and as a county supervisor. Most recently, he was the tribe’s vice president.
He and Lizer will have to confront a loss in revenue and jobs if a power plant and coal mine close in December as expected.
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