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WATERSMEET -- Political problems within the Lac Vieux Desert Tribe in Watersmeet had protestors voicing their opinions Thursday.  Seven of the tribal council members voted out of office last month refused to step down and are challenging the election results.

The new council was supposed to be sworn into office during Tuesday's tribal council meeting, and when they weren’t, it was a tipping point for protestors.  The protestors are angry with their government and are making sure their voices are heard.

"I think it's important to the community, as well as our children, to let them know that they have rights,” said protestor June Smith.  “Their rights have been stomped on, our elders rights have been stomped on...it's just so shameful."

The current tribal council is refusing to step down due to alleged problems with the election committee which they say must be decided by the courts.

Current council members declined interview requests from Upper Michigan’s Source, but tribal chairman James Williams, Jr. released a statement saying, "...until the court considers those issues, the election CANNOT be certified!!"

One of the newly elected councilmen, Richard Williams, wants to let the process work itself out.

"Knowing the history and knowing the rules and regulations by which we elect our people,” said Williams.  “As long as challenges are out there, we can't go forward until those challenges are resolved."

Smith and other protestors have contacted the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the FBI to see if any illegal activity is taking place.  She said regardless of the outcome, the protests will continue until the new council is sworn into office.

"This is our government.  We have the right to vote and speak our minds and tell the people the truth, and we need to be represented,” Smith said.  “We've been dominated, I think, for way too long and now people have spoken up."

A recount of last month's election was completed last week, but the current council is continuing to challenge the results.  For now it appears nothing will change until a court rules on the matter.