Jean-Guy Whiteduck emerges victorious in a closely contested election to reclaim the position of chief in Kitigan Zibi Anishinābeg. Whiteduck, who previously served as chief from 1976 to 2006, then from 2015 to 2018, and now as of 2024, secured 283 out of 877 valid ballots during the voting on Saturday.
In a recent community newsletter, Whiteduck outlined his commitment to securing funding for off-reserve members, resolving land disputes, initiating a rent-to-own housing initiative, and enhancing language and community facilities. Francine Whiteduck secured the second position with 242 votes, followed by Faith Decontie in third place with 222 votes. Gordon McGregor garnered 130 votes, wrapping up the chief ballot.
Tina Dewache, the chief electoral officer, reported that 91 ballots were either spoiled or rejected out of the total votes cast. Additionally, out of the approximately 4,500 members of the Algonquin community, with 3,300 eligible voters, five of the six incumbent council members were re-elected: Gordon McGregor, Frank Meness, Anita Tenasco, Victoria Tenasco, and Celine Whiteduck. Gilbert Whiteduck, a former chief, has also been elected to the council.