Joe Hare retires, two women on ballot
M’CHIGEENG —The list of names of those agreeing to stand for election as chief of M’Chigeeng First Nation has dropped from eight to three following the end of the nomination period. Although candidates can withdraw up to the day of the ballot, those listed have agreed to let their names stand as per the requirements of the M’Chigeeng custom election regulations.
The three candidates for chief are Linda Debassige, G’Mewin Migwans and Martin Debassige. Incumbent Chief Joe Hare did not let his name stand.
There are 18 candidates standing for the position of band councillor and they include Andrea Panamick, Marko Debassige, Debbie Corbiere-Debassige, Ray Corbiere, Brenda Roy, Forry Hare, Andrew M. Corbiere, Andrea McGraw, Charlene Recollet, Tiffany Recollet, Thomas Hare, Mark Debassige, Henry Panamick Sr., Brian Bisson,
Sam Debassige, Bev Roy-Carter, Basil Panamick and Debbie Ense.
Chief Electoral Officer Dan Simon noted that the official poll will take place on September 12, but that there will be a special advance poll on September 5 during the annual M’Chigeeng Traditional Powwow and that electors are also able to avail themselves of a mail-in ballot. “But the mail-in ballot has to be received before September 12,” he said.
In order to vote, electors must be on the list of registered voters and have identification on hand. “I know most of the people on the list,” said Mr. Simon, “but there are some people from off reserve that I might not know to see them.” The electoral officer noted that the necessary identification includes most of the usual items, band card, driver’s licence, birth certificate or passport.
