Donna Nelson removed as Derbarl Yerrigan chair as uncertainty shrouds detainment in Japan

Uncertainty remains over the fate of a West Australian Aboriginal community leader detained in Japan, after the organisation she chaired removed her from the position. Key points: Donna Nelson was detained in Japan earlier this month Derbarl-Yerrigan Health Service says it needed to appoint a new chair The organisation says she is facing "personal challenges" Donna Nelson was the chair of the Aboriginal-run Derbarl Yerrigan Health Service and was the Greens candidate for Pearce in the 2022 federal election. Ms Nelson facing 'personal challenges' In a statement, Derbarl Yerrigan said Ms Nelson had been "relieved" from her position as the organisation's chair, effective immediately. "With the situation facing Donna in Japan still unknown and the timing of her return to Australia uncertain, the board felt appointing a new chair was crucial to the smooth running of the organisation," the statement read. In a statement, a spokesperson for Mr McGowan said the pair had discussed "many economic and security related issues", as well as Ms Nelson's situation.