4 running for Tlicho grand chief

Tlicho Grand Chief George Mackenzie will face three challengers when the N.W.T. aboriginal government's members go to the polls next month.

Delegates at the Tlicho annual assembly in Behchoko, N.W.T., nominated four candidates Thursday to be their grand chief.

Joining Mackenzie, who is seeking a second term, on the ballot are:

• Joe Rabesca, a former Dogrib grand chief.
• Eddie Erasmus,a former chiefin Behchoko, N.W.T.
• Charlie Jim Nitsiza, a former chiefin Whati, N.W.T.

TheTlicho grand chief electiontakes place Sept. 14.

Mackenzie has led the Tlicho formerly known as the Dogrib through the first four years since their land-claim and self-government agreement was ratified in 2005.

The Tlicho grand chief is paid an annual salary of $130,000, plus benefits.

Candidates for the job had to be nominated by an individual, with 20 other people backing that nomination.