George Mackenzie elected next Dene National chief
Mackenzie wins with 136 votes after 3 rounds of voting
George Mackenzie has been elected as the next Dene National chief.
During the Dene Nation’s assembly in Dettah, Mackenzie was elected Thursday night with 136 votes. The next-closest was Gerry Cheezie with 100 votes.
Mackenzie, a former Tłı̨chǫ grand chief, was one of a record number of candidates — six in total — to put their names forward. His election comes after three rounds of voting Thursday.
In a statement posted to Facebook, April Martel, the chief of Kátł’odeeche Fırst Natıon and one of the candidates, congratulated Mackenzie on his win.
“I am honoured to have made it to round two with Gerry Cheezie and George Mackenzie and wish them success in building a prosperous Dene Nation,” she wrote.
In another post, Kele Antoine, the chief of Łı́ı́dlı̨ı̨ Kų́ę́ First Nation, thanked all the candidates who ran, including outgoing Dene National chief Gerald Antoine.
“Your dedication and tireless efforts have made a significant impact on all of us, and your legacy of service will continue to inspire future generations,” he wrote.
Related stories from around the North:
Finland: Finnish Court annuls 2023 Sámi elections, The Independent Barents Observer
Sweden: Land use rights a key issue in this year’s Sami parliamentary elections in Sweden, Radio Sweden
