AFN doesn't support Yukon youth rep's endorsement of Ryan Leef

The Assembly of First Nations is distancing itself from partisan comments made by the Yukon representative on the organization's national youth council.

Yesterday, Connor Whitehouse issued a statement lauding the accomplishments of Yukon's federal Conservative candidate Ryan Leef, and Stephen Harper's government, when it comes to First Nations relations.

Besides being on the AFN's youth council, Whitehouse is also working on Leef's re-election campaign.

Whitehouse's statement refers to "Ryan Leef's proven leadership on supporting Yukon First Nations initiatives, economic development, infrastructure and culture."

The statement goes on to list projects funded by the Conservative government, and concludes by stating that Leef has good working relationships with First Nations.

When the CBC contacted the AFN, it issued its own statement, saying the organization and National Chief Perry Bellegarde "are and will remain non-partisan in this election," and that Whitehouse's statement "does not represent the position of the AFN or the National Chief."

The AFN also said individuals have the right to express their personal beliefs.

Whitehouse was not available for comment.