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Navajo Leader On Paid Leave Files Appeal

  The speaker of the Navajo Nation Council is appealing a judge's decision that kept him away from his administrative duties.

The Navajo Nation Council placed Johnny Naize on paid administrative leave months after he was charged with bribery and conspiracy in a criminal case. Naize has pleaded not guilty.

Naize challenged his colleagues' decision, saying it was invalid and denied him due process.

Window Rock District Judge Carol Perry disagreed. She said that due process was afforded when the council discussed a bill to remove Naize from his post in executive session. It was amended to place him on paid administrative leave.

Attorneys for Naize filed a notice of appeal Friday with the Navajo Nation Supreme Court.

Naize retains his seat as a delegate on the Tribal Council, representing parts of Arizona.

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