Derek Nepinak, grand chief of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs speaks to the media with other Manitoba Chiefs Jan 10, 2013 in Ottawa Ont. (ANDRE FORGET/QMI AGENCY)

WINNIPEG - The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) says reports of political in-fighting with the national Assembly of First Nations (AFN) were greatly exaggerated, but a new treaty relations alliance may still be considered.

AMC Grand Chief Derek Nepinak said AFN National Chief Shawn Atleo serves as a gatekeeper to help treaty chiefs negotiate with the federal government but shouldn't be the sole voice on treaty issues.

"There is unity in the fact that the AFN recognizes it cannot speak for treaties," Nepinak said.