Derek Neary
Northern News Services

Fort Liard (Jun 30/00) - Rita Cli has been given another three years.

The Liidlii Kue First Nation chief received 123 votes in last week's LKFN election, making her the overwhelming choice among the four candidates.

Jonas Antoine collected 52 votes, Eric Menicoche was named on 41 ballots, and Donald Hardisty had 32 supporters at the polls.

The eight band council seats will be occupied by Gerald Antoine, Ernest Cazon, Ron Hardisty, Kevin Menicoche, Andy Norwegian, Keyna Norwegian, Hazel Isiah and Bert Tsetso.

After the election results were announced at the Fort Simpson recreation centre, Cli told the crowd gathered for Aboriginal Day celebrations that she will persist in being "very, very vocal" on behalf of her people. She also said she will continue to abide by the elders' guidelines and keep the children in mind when making decisions.

"I would never do anything to jeopardize our kids' lives," she said. "I'll tell you one thing with my heart, I will never, never sell out. If something goes wrong, I will walk away (from the negotiating table)."

If negotiations are done properly, today's youth will be benefitting from the resources on the land in the future, she noted.

Cli also mentioned accessible leadership as being imperative.

"The band office is not my office, it's your office," she told the crowd.