N.W.T. Supreme Court confirms Frederick Blake Jr. as grand chief of Gwich'in Tribal Council

The Supreme Court of the Northwest Territories has confirmed Frederick Blake Jr. as the grand chief of the Gwich'in Tribal Council. The court ruled against the council's decision to hold a new election after complaints from his opponent, Ken Kyikavichik. Justice Annie Piché found that while Blake violated some election rules, these issues did not invalidate the election results. The council had previously overturned Blake's election in August based on complaints that were later deemed unfounded by an investigation. The court did not restrict Kyikavichik from questioning Blake's election validity, citing freedom of expression. Additionally, the court declined to prevent Kyikavichik from participating in council activities, allowing him the option to run again in future elections.