Four candidates are in the running to become the next leader of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs.
The organization that represents 63 First Nations across the province has announced that former Long Plain First Nation chief Kyra Wilson, Sapotaweyak Cree Nation band councillor Bava Dhillon are in the running to become the new Grand Chief as is York Factory First Nation Chief Leroy Constant.
The fourth candidate running is the former chief of the Peguis First Nation, Glenn Hudson. Hudson served 14 years as chief of the Peguis First Nation and is very proud of what he was able to accomplish.
He was able to complete the C-92 legislation, the Child and Family Services Act. Under his leadership, Peguis First Nation took over local control of Child and Family Services from intake to exiting the system. A three-year, $319-million dollar agreement was signed in February of 2023.
"We were also able to increase our education funding for post-secondary studies," said Hudson. "We also settled a land claim near Selkirk. It was the largest land claim in Canada's history at the time, $126.1 million in 2009."
Hudson hadn't considered running for the Grand Chief position until two national chiefs recommended that he run. Glenn says what sets him apart from the other candidates is his experience.
"One is a councillor, one has under one year of experience and the other has four years," said Hudson. "Myself, I have 14 years and don't take that lightly. I have a lot of knowledge and experience gained. I feel that I can help our people not only in one community but in all 63 First Nations."
The leadership position will replace the former AMC Grand Chief Cathy Merrick, who died suddenly in September. The deadline for nominations is Saturday at 4:00 p.m. and a vote will take place on January 29, the second day of the assembly's three-day convention in Winnipeg.
Should he be successful, Hudson says one of his main priorities will be housing and infrastructure.
"That's very important for many of our First Nation communities," ended Hudson. "The new gas station is coming to Dauphin and I have been working alongside Ebb and Flow and Pine Creek as that build continues."
Hudson will also focus on securing energy like natural gas and hydro development for First Nation communities.
