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THEBACHA/FORT SMITH - Two candidates will be in the running when Salt River First Nation (SRFN) elects a chief on Aug. 25.

Incumbent Chief Frieda Martselos is being challenged for the position by SRFN band manager David Poitras.

The pair was the only two candidates for chief of the Fort Smith-based band when nominations closed Aug. 28.

Martselos is seeking to return as chief following a tumultuous time as leader since winning an April 2007 by-election. Council ousted her as chief just a week after she was elected, but she successfully challenged the council's decision in court and was reinstated.

"I honestly feel that the members will finally have the last say in the direction of Salt River First Nation," she said. "They will set the direction."

Martselos, 57, isn't surprised she faces a challenge, "In a democracy, you always expect competition."

Poitras, who has taken a leave as band manager, said he has been thinking about running for chief for years and was encouraged by band members who want to see SRFN move ahead.

"That's the main reason I'm running and also I think I have a lot to offer," said Poitras, who served on council for several years in the late 1980s.

Poitras, who has been band manager for two years, said his first goal if elected would be to rebuild trust and restore unity within the band.

The Aug. 25 election will also fill three seats on council.

Candidates include are Frederick R.R. Beaulieu, Raymond Beaver, Toni Heron, Brad C. Laviolette, James Schaefer, Gloria Villebrun and Melvin Wandering Spirit.