Members of the Carcross-Tagish First Nation (CTFN) re-elected Maria Benoit to a second term as Ḵaa Shaadé Hení (chief) on Tuesday.
Benoit was victorious with 101 votes, the First Nation reported. The runner-up was Charlie James, another elder and a long-time community leader, who received 45 votes.
Ashley Carvill, CTFN’s implementation manager, finished in third place with 37 votes.
Yukon Government Premier Ranj Pillai offered his congratulations Thursday afternoon.
“The Government of Yukon values our government-to-government relationship with the Carcross/Tagish First Nation and I look forward to our continued collaboration as we advance our shared priorities,” said Pillai.
“Over the years, she has focused on promoting community health and healing, fostering economic sustainability, and preserving and protecting language and culture as well as Indigenous rights.”
During her first term, the premier noted, Benoit oversaw key milestones such as signing the final management plan for the Tagish River Habitat Protection Area with the federal and Yukon governments; and signing the management plan for the Tséi Zhéłe/Sinwaa Éex’i Yé/Conrad Historic Site.
She also signed an agreement supporting the wildlife fire training of CFTEN citizens on an initial-attack crew and expanding wildfire resiliency in the Carcross area.
“Other critical points under her leadership include the Carcross’ Ghùch Tlâ Community School joining the First Nations School Board and the ground searches at the Chooutla former residential school site,” Pillai said.
