A virtual vote will determine who will lead the Assembly of First Nations as its next national chief. Seven candidates are vying to replace outgoing National Chief Perry Bellegarde in the election taking place Wednesday.
OTTAWA -- A virtual vote will determine who will lead the Assembly of First Nations as its next national chief.
Bellegarde said Tuesday he is proud of his six years serving as national chief, pointing to historic federal investments of $45 billion in transfers earmarked for Indigenous communities and initiatives during his tenure. An attempt to put off the election for new national chief was made Tuesday during the opening day of the AFN's 42nd annual general assembly, which is being held virtually.
Some also raised concerns about connectivity issues for some remote First Nations as well as other impediments caused by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.