New chiefs elected in 3 Tlicho communities

Three Tlicho communities in the Northwest Territories voted for a change in leadership, electing new chiefs this week.

Incumbent chiefs Leon Lafferty of Behchoko, Charlie Nitsiza of Whati and Henry Gon of Gameti lost their seats in Monday's community elections, held in the four communities that are part ofthe Tlicho aboriginal government.

In Behchoko, Clifford Daniels defeated Lafferty and two other candidates to become the community's new chief. Lafferty finished in third place, behind Bertha Rabesca-Zoe.

In Whati, Nitsiza wasunseated by his brother, Alphonse Nitsiza, while Edward Chocolate defeated Gon in Gameti.

Voters in only one Tlicho community, Wekweeti, kept their incumbent chief, Charlie Football.

In recent years, Lafferty, Nitsiza and Gon have clashed with the Tlicho government over the leadership of Grand Chief George Mackenzie.

Voters in favour of 'positive change,' says Behchoko chief-elect

In Behchoko, Daniels told CBC News Tuesdayhe feels "tired but exhilarated" from Monday night's election victory.

"Hopefully, there is a positive change that they're in favour of," Daniels said.

"We will listen to the people in the community and see, you know, what is needed, what is warranted, and have our ears open and really consider, you know, their needs."

Daniels said his priorities for Behchoko include working with young people, helping to build a new youth centre and other infrastructure projects such as paving roads.

As well, the new chief said relations with the Tlicho aboriginal government need improvement, following the dispute involving Lafferty, Nitsiza and Gon.

Daniels said he will work towards restoring the chief's executive council, which wassuspended because of the leadership dispute.

Voters in Behchoko, a community of about 2,000 people, also elected eight new councillors, five of which are women.

Official vote tallies from the community electionswere not available as of Tuesday afternoon.

The newly-elected chiefs will take office next month.