Jorge Barrera
Northern News Services

Rae (Mar 11/02) - When Rae band voters go to the polls today, only incumbent Eddie-Paul Rabesca's name will be on the ballot for chief.

This is despite pleas from many residents to let Jackson Lafferty back in the race.

Lafferty accepted a nomination to run for chief on Feb. 13 but withdrew his name two days later. On Feb. 15, around 30 residents visited his home to ask him to return to the race. He agreed.

Lafferty said the election officer refused to reinstate him.

Marilyn Martin, the band's election officer told News/North two weeks ago the community should hold a public meeting to decide on reinstatement. None was held.

Elder Alphonse Eronchi said he tried to raise the issue during a land claim update meeting last Monday but someone unplugged his microphone before he could finish.

"We don't know who to talk to, we don't know who to turn to," said Eronchi last Thursday.

Despite repeated attempts, no one from band staff returned phone calls despite assurances they would.

Martin could not be reached either.

Eronchi said many in the community do not want incumbent Chief Eddie-Paul Rabesca to run unopposed.

Rabesca has not returned phone calls for weeks.

Lafferty said he is waiting for things to clear up before he decides what to do.

"It's really frustrating, the waiting time," said Lafferty. "I really can't say (if I'll run again) because of all this commotion. I need to talk to some community members."

The Rae band is under custom elections which means the community sets the rules for elections.