Yellowknife (June 13/03) - A former Ndilo chief and a former Dettah chief are vying to replace Richard Edjericon.

Members of the Yellowknifes Dettah band will choose between Peter Liske and Jonas Sangris Monday.

Edjericon has put his name in the race for Dene national chief and will not seek re-election when his term ends at midnight on June 15.

Liske was chief of Ndilo for three years, from 1999 to 2002.

"I would like to get one more kick at the cat. I feel I have something to offer to the community," he said.

"I have the experience to be a leader. I know the issues we have to deal with."

Jonas Sangris was Dettah chief for 12 years and wants another term.

"I was getting tired. I had a good rest and I am ready to go again," he said.

"I've lived in Dettah all my life. I'm from the community, I know the community."

The two candidates said land claims and the youth are a big issue in the election.

"I want to focus on economics for young people. I want to be able to see our sons grow up to be lawyers and doctors," Sangris said, adding that he wants to promote traditional education and culture as well.

Liske said he wants to see more youth involvement in the community.

"I would like to see more youth involvement in the community and in the political arena.

"We have to educate our youth because they will take over," he said.

In order to vote in the election, you must be 18 years of age and be a member of the Dettah.