Kakisa (June 30/03) - In Herb Norwegian, Deh Cho elders got their man for grand chief. However, they had to forsake traditional selection in favour of a democratic election.

The elders' committee chose Norwegian as the most worthy among the five candidates.

When the news was delivered to delegates in the drum circle it was met with silence. Eventually, several delegates started crying out for an election.

Fort Simpson Chief Keyna Norwegian didn't want the elders to prevent a vote, as happened in 2000 when Deh Cho leaders, some begrudgingly, accepted the elders' recommendation to extend Grand Chief Michael Nadli's term.

"Let the people decide this time," Norwegian demanded. "That way the person who is chosen would have the membership behind them."

Roy Fabian, chief of the Hay River Reserve, sided with the elders in what he described as a clash of cultures.

"We want to do everything the white man's way. It doesn't make us look good," said Fabian.

After four hours of sometimes rancorous debate -- which included threats, a lawsuit and a challenge to the Deh Cho constitution -- the delegates finally agreed to proceed with an election.

Norwegian, the Deh Cho's assistant negotiator for the past five years, received more than 50 per cent support on the first ballot.

At 11:20 p.m., he entered the drum circle to a chorus of applause, drumming and chants of his name.

Norwegian said he had full confidence in the elders' recommendation.

"You people went ahead and carried out (the elders') decision," he said, addressing the delegates and thanking them for their support.

"I think the elders work in miraculous ways. They're like Creators."