A former chief of the Lac La Ronge Indian Band is looking to regain the role in this year’s election.
Tom J. McKenzie is one of six candidates campaigning to be the band’s next leader.
He served as chief of the First Nation from 1983-1985.
McKenzie said his main goal if elected would be to achieve self-government.
As is the case with most First Nations in Canada, the La Ronge band is currently under the jurisdiction of the federal government’s Indian Act.
A move to complete self government would give the First Nation authority over all institutions which affect it.
“I see the band as needing to take some steps towards implementing our inherent right of self-government,” McKenzie said. “Those steps will take time and band members will have to approve any steps taken.”
Although self government is a top priority, McKenzie said there are other issues he would also like to work on if elected chief.
“Generally, we have to maintain current programs and services and build on them. We have to continue with the reserve creations and the expanding of reserve lands in the communities which are necessary for housing, economic development and social development.”
Health and safety are other top concerns, he said.
“Well of course the health and safety of band members is the most important consideration with the pandemic situation which will be with us for quite a while now.”
McKenzie said his previous experience as chief means he already has an understanding of working with council going into the job.
Voting in the election began online on May 11 and will continue until May 25.
In-person polls will be open May 25-26 for band members in Stanley Mission and Lac La Ronge/Kitsaki.
All other band communities are scheduled to have in-person voting on May 26.
(PHOTO: Tom McKenzie. Photo courtesy Kitsaki Management Limited Partnership.)