Andrew Raven
Northern News Services

Rae-Edzo (June 20/05) - Tlicho voters elected their first government Monday, ushering in a new era of aboriginal self-government in the North.

Former MLA Leon Lafferty defeated three challengers in the race for chief of Rae-Edzo, which contains nearly 60 per cent of the Tlicho population.

Mabel Bohnet was the only woman elected to the new Tlicho government. - Andrew Raven/NNSL photo

The only incumbent chief re-elected was Charlie Nitsiza of Wha Ti. Henry Gon was chosen to lead Gameti and Charlie Football, Wekweti.

While the results were celebrated Monday night, several residents said they are disappointed that only one woman was elected to the new government.

"The whole election really disappointed me," said Madelaine Chocolate, who finished second in the balloting for chief of Gameti.

"The men are rejoicing, but I feel terrible for the women."

Mabel Bohnet, the lone female elected, said the new government should encourage more female participation. "Women play an important role in the workforce. They should have a place in politics," she said.

The results produced several surprises, including the election of one non-Tlicho to council: Michael Botermans from Rae.

"I think it was a cry for help," said Botermans, renowned in the community for his work with students.

"People were looking for someone to forcefully advocate on behalf of children and women."

The Tlicho government will have control over 39,000 square-kilometres of land in the North Slave. Eventually, it could allow the Tlicho people to control their own social policy in areas ranging from taxation, to health care to education.

The government comes to power in August and will replace the existing band structure in the four Tlicho communities.

See next week's edition of News/North for an in-depth look at the future of the Tlicho Government.

Behcho Ko

Chief: Leon Lafferty

Band Councillors: Joe Beaverho, Mabel Bohnet, Michael Botermans, Luke Grosco, Joe Migwi, Joseph Mackenzie, Charlie Rabesca, James Rabesca, Ernie Smith, and Johnny Weyallon.

Wha Ti

Chief: Charlie J. Nitsiza

Band Councillors: Alfred Beaverho, Michel Louis Moosenose, Albert Nitsiza, Alfonz J. Nitsiza, Georgie Nitsiza, Mike Nitsiza, Jimmy B. Rabesca, and Sonny Zoe.

Gameti

Chief: Henry Gon

Band Councillors: Alphonse Apples, Frank Arrowmaker, Edward Chocolate, William Chocolate, Jimmy B. Mantla, and Joe Zoe.

Wekweti

Chief: Charlie Football

Band Councillors: Joseph Dryneck, Casey Eyakfwo and Travis Washie. William Quitte and Sam Simpson tied with 43 votes.