Ratsénhaienhs Alan John Rice to accept new position

09/13/2022

The Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke (MCK) wishes to inform the community that Ratsénhaienhs Alan John Rice has accepted a new position as the MCK’s Executive Operations Officer. He was the successful candidate to replace Kevin Kennedy, who retired last month after a long career.

A more formal, detailed announcement will be made later in the week, as there are still details to be worked out. It is expected that Ratsénhaienhs Rice will assume his new position sometime in October. “I’m excited to be starting this position,” he stated. “I’ve enjoyed my time and the work I’ve done as a Ratsénhaienhs, but with my skillset and past experience, I feel I can be more effective within the administration at this position.”

One of the stipulations of accepting the new position is that Ratsénhaienhs Rice would be required to relinquish his Council seat. Once that is done, a by-election would be held as per Section 34.1 of the Kahnawà:ke Election Law, which reads:

“The vacancy of a Council position due to death, resignation or removal from office more than eighteen (18) months before the next selection of Council Chiefs will be filled by calling for nominations to fill the vacancy. This should be done one (1) week following the vacancy. A by-election should be called two (2) weeks following the nomination, with such modification or adaptation of this Law as the Electoral Officer deems necessary.”    

Ratsénhaienhs Rice was elected to his first term of office in July 2021. Previously, he held the position of General Manager of the Office of the Kahnawà:ke Kanien’kehá:ka Registry.

“This is a key position within the MCK,” said Executive Director Onerahtókha Marquis. “It is of utmost importance to have the position filled by a highly-qualified person as soon as possible, and we are thrilled to have Alan John coming on board. He has the skills, knowledge and passion to be a great success.”