Jean-Guy Whiteduck re-elected as Kitigan Zibi chief

18-Aug-2026

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Jean-Guy Whiteduck will return as chief of Kitigan Zibi Anishinābeg after winning a tight three-way race this past weekend.

Whiteduck, who was chief from 1976 to 2006, from 2015 to 2018 and again starting in 2024, won 283 of the 877 valid ballots cast for chief on August 15.

He had said in a community newsletter that he would work to fund services for members living outside the community, settle land claims, develop a rent-to-own housing program and work on building language and community centres.

Francine Whiteduck came second with 242 votes, while Faith Decontie finished third with 222. Gordon McGregor rounded out the ballot with 130 votes.

Ninety-one ballots for chief were rejected or spoiled, according to chief electoral officer Tina Dewache.