Iqaluit (Sep 25/06) - Police in the capital doubt foul play was a factor in the death of a candidate for city council.

Oopeetee Attagooyuk, 51, was found dead Sept. 19 near his home on Iqaluit's waterfront. RCMP Cpl. Randy Slawson said Attagooyuk was found in a sitting position. Police don't believe Attagooyuk's death was a suicide.

Rumours circulated Tuesday that Attagooyuk was murdered, but Slawson said that may have been sparked by unrelated, nearby arrests for public intoxication.

"The arrests were not in connection with (Attagooyuk's) demise," he said.

Slawson also said there appears to be no connection between Attagooyuk's run for city council and his death.

Autopsy results were expected Friday, after News/North's deadline.

The city's chief electoral officer, Kirt Ejesiak, said he consulted with the territorial government and Attagooyuk's name will be removed from the list of candidates for the Oct. 16 city elections.

"Out of respect for the family, I think it would be more hurtful to include (Attagooyuk's name), so it will be taken off," Ejesiak said.

Attagooyuk was a regular at DJ Specialties convenience store. While Attagooyuk battled substance abuse, owner Stu Kennedy said he was fiercely intelligent and had a great sense of humour.