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THEBACHA/FORT SMITH - Frieda Martselos, incumbent chief of Salt River First Nation, has reclaimed her position with a win over band manager David Poitras.

Voting took place in Fort Smith Aug. 25 with Martselos claiming 175 votes to 147 for Poitras.

But Poitras plans to appeal, claiming he was treated unfairly during the campaign. He was also fired as Salt River's band manager less than 24 hours after the election ended, along with finance officer Barbara McArthur.

Poitras, the only other candidate for chief, had served as band manager for two years.

He said documents had been mailed out in the NWT, Saskatchewan and British Columbia which had "pretty awful comments about the (previous band) council and I was included in that too." He declined to say who was responsible for the documents.

Martselos, 57, sought to return as chief after a tumultuous time as leader. One week after being elected in April 2007 she was removed from the position by council. She was eventually reinstated after challenging the council's decision in court.

Martselos said she was very happy with the outcome and dismisses any claims of wrongdoing during campaign time.

"There was a democratic vote held. It was held fair and square," she said.

She said her plans include making sure monies belonging to Salt River First Nation are secure and there is no unnecessary spending "until I can meet with the membership so they can set the agenda on their own monies."

Martselos said her re-election as chief has given her some vindication and she can now carry out her mandate, something she was not previously able to do.

"Salt River First Nation will move ahead. There will be no mismanagement," said Martselos. "Membership will always be the priority."

She could not be reached for comment regarding Poitras' firing.

Coun. Mike Beaver said he was disappointed with the outcome of the election and Martselos's victory.

"We're trying hard to move ahead even though we've had a lot of problems with her," he said after the election.

Elected to council were Frederick Beaulieu, Gloria Villebrun and Brad Laviolette to council. Beaulieu came in with 209 votes, Laviolette garnered 175 and Villebrun won the last spot with 166 votes. The three beat out four other candidates for the positions.