ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) – An arrest warrant has been issued for the chairman of Arizona’s White Mountain Apache tribe, and the outcome of a recent election is being questioned by four tribal council candidates who were denied a spot on the ballot.

A New Mexico attorney representing the candidates says he plans to go to federal court. David Jordan alleges his clients lost their liberties to participate in the electoral process.

Longtime Tribal Chairman Ronnie Lupe and White Mountain Apache legal officials did not immediately return calls Thursday.

Lupe’s administration is accused of ignoring a court order that put on hold Wednesday’s inauguration of new council members. The order also called for a “proper election” to be scheduled.

The Arizona tribe is not alone when it comes to tribal politics being upended. American Indian communities in New Mexico and elsewhere are wading through similar disputes.