Jorge Barrera
Northern News Services

Rae (Feb 18/02) - Saying families ties are stronger than a candidate's qualities, one of the two people running for chief dropped out the day after he accepted the nomination.

Jackson Lafferty said he decided to leave the election race after spending a sleepless night mulling his nomination.

"It all comes down to family votes versus credentials," said Lafferty, who ran for chief three years ago and lost.

Nominated Feb. 13, Lafferty told News/North Feb. 14 that he was pulling out.

"I feel I was set up to fall," said Lafferty. "The loss in the last election pulled my heart out."

Lafferty believes the current leadership isn't doing its job and is not a good role model for the youth.

Incumbent Chief Eddie-Paul Rabesca's term runs out on March 1. An interim chief will be appointed until the March 11 election when Rabesca will resume his position.

Before his election as chief three years ago, Rabesca was sub-chief for the Rae band for more than 20 years.

Rabesca could not be reached for comment by press time.

Lafferty addressed the community on Dogrib radio Friday, outlining his reasons for dropping out.

As of Feb. 13, there are 20 candidates for 11 council seats.