Jean-Guy Whiteduck has been elected as the chief of Kitigan Zibi Anishinābeg after emerging victorious in a closely contested three-way race over the weekend. Whiteduck, who previously served as chief between 1976 to 2006, from 2015 to 2018, and now reclaims the position in 2024, secured 283 out of the 877 valid votes cast for chief on Saturday.
In a community bulletin, Whiteduck outlined his plans to secure funding for services for members residing outside the community, resolve land disputes, establish a rent-to-own housing initiative, and focus on the development of language and community facilities. Francine Whiteduck secured the second position with 242 votes, while Faith Decontie came in third with 222 votes. Gordon McGregor received 130 votes, concluding the ballot.
The chief electoral officer, Tina Dewache, reported that 91 ballots for chief were either rejected or spoiled. The Algonquin community, comprising approximately 4,500 members with around 3,300 eligible voters, also re-elected five of the incumbent council members: Gordon McGregor, Frank Meness, Anita Tenasco, Victoria Tenasco, and Celine Whiteduck. Additionally, Gilbert Whiteduck, a former chief, has been elected to the council.