Darrell Greer
Northern News Services

Rankin Inlet (Apr 05/04) - Former Nunavut Education Minister Manitok Thompson has officially withdrawn from the Liberal Party's nomination process.

Thompson had been seeking the party's nomination against current Member of Parliament (MP) Nancy Karetak-Lindell.

Thompson said she became disenchanted with the party's nomination process when the nominee selection date was changed from March 31 to mid-April.

She said she has no intention of participating in a process that is not completely open and transparent, or one subject to improper or unfair influence.

"I understand the main reason for the extension was that Nancy (Karetak-Lindell) was too busy with her schedule and I have a bit of a problem with that," said Thompson.

"Why would they change the rules?

"I've run in many elections and I've never, not once, experienced date changes to an election process that has already been set."

Thompson now plans to run in the federal election as an independent candidate.

Karetak-Lindell said she's not concerned with Thompson's contention that the nominee selection date was delayed due to her busy schedule.

"She's (Thompson) going to make any comment she can trying to ruin my reputation, but I just try and stay above that type of thing and concentrate on what I have to do to make sure I win the next election," said Karetak-Lindell.

"Sometimes that's the ugly part of politics in that you're always a target and you're not going to please everyone no matter what you do."

Karetak-Lindell said she received tremendous support from across Nunavut during the nomination process and was not overly concerned with getting the Liberal nomination.

"This nomination process really helped get us ready for the big one.

"I'm just waiting to hear when the federal election will be and concentrating all my energy and resources on my re-election bid.

"As far as Thompson is concerned, she's just another candidate to me," said Karetak-Lindell.

Thompson said her plan is consistent with the consensus-style government in Nunavut, which allows elected members to express the views of their constituents.

"I worked very hard throughout the nomination process and received a great deal of support from across Nunavut.

"I am disappointed in the Liberal Party's decision in changing the nominee selection date, but I look forward to the campaign now and debating the issues and concerns of all Nunavummiut with the other candidates."

Thompson said she originally decided to seek the Liberal nomination because she has always been impressed with Prime Minister Paul Martin.

Now, however, she will listen to all sides if she finds herself in the nation's capital as Nunavut's MP.

"If I'm fortunate enough to be voted in to go to Ottawa, I will learn the ropes quickly and then entertain who has the best deal for Nunavut.

"Any future decisions I make in regards to party politics, I will base on that."