Nadli challenged for Deh Cho seat
Incumbent one of four candidates to announce intention to run
April Hudson
Northern News Services
Thursday, November 5, 2015
DEH GAH GOT'IE KOE/FORT PROVIDENCE
Nominations have closed for the territorial election, with four candidates competing to represent the Deh Cho electoral district in the 18th Legislative Assembly.
Incumbent Michael Nadli entered the race upon his release from jail after serving eight days of a 45-day sentence for assault causing bodily harm, a crime that left a woman with a broken wrist.
Nadli was not available for an interview before press time.
In an Oct. 27 news release in which he announced his intention to run again, Nadli addressed his recent jail sentence, stating he has been taking counselling and has "honestly admitted (his) error."
"I am deeply sorry and I truly wish the incident never happen (sic). I won't hesitate to take my actions back in an instant," Nadli stated in the news release.
Priorities Nadli stated he would bring to office if he is re-elected include completing the Dehcho Process negotiations, addressing a lack of housing and addictions, and encouraging community input into the capital planning process.
Nadli is facing challenges from three other candidates: Ron Bonnetrouge of Fort Providence, Lyle Fabian of Hay River and Greg Nyuli of Providence.
Bonnetrouge, who spoke with Deh Cho Drum a few days before nominations closed, is a carpenter and photographer. Bonnetrouge said he wants to tackle challenges facing vulnerable populations by focusing on programs such as elder care and opportunities for youth.
He said he also wants to see the government bargain in good faith with the Dehcho First Nations during negotiations on the Dehcho Process.
Nyuli did not respond to requests for an interview and Fabian was unavailable for comment at press time.
Online summaries of Nyuli's platform state that he has 14 priorities he would focus on if elected. On his online posts he states he plans to consult with local governments over the next two weeks.
His priorities include land claims, decentralization of government services and creating a Green Energy division of the Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment within the Deh Cho riding, among others. Fabian addressed Deh Cho constituents in a Nov. 3 letter he posted to social media in which he states he has been involved in leadership at K'atlodeeche First Nation since 2009.
In running for MLA, Fabian states in the letter, he intends to "bring fresh ideas, positive solutions and a strong voice" to the GNWT.
Priorities for Fabian include access to broadband Internet, protecting treaty and aboriginal rights and promoting Dene languages in schools. The Deh Cho riding includes Fort Providence, Kakisa, Enterprise and Hay River Dene Reserve's old town and new town.
Candidates have until 5 p.m. on Oct. 30 to withdraw their name from the official nomination list.
General voting will occur Nov. 23.
