Grand Chief Mandy Gull-Masty has announced her resignation and been named the Liberal candidate for the Abitibi–Baie-James–Nunavik–Eeyou riding in the next federal election. The Grand Council of the Crees confirmed that a special resolution had been adopted to support this transition.
Effective March 31, Deputy Grand Chief Norman A. Wapachee will assume the role of Grand Chief, receiving the full support of leadership and administration. At a Cree Nation Government meeting March 27, Gull-Masty cried when announcing she had accepted the nomination.
“It’s very hard on me because I love my Nation so much,” Gull-Masty said. “I did this job with all of my heart.”
With the next nomination period for Grand Chief opening on May 22 with elections to be held July 17, the Grand Council gave assurance that this announcement in no manner affects the Cree Nation Government’s obligations, services and daily operations. It said the Abitibi–Baie-James–Nunavik–Eeyou riding is rich in diversity and opportunities.
While Sylvie Bérubé of the Bloc Québécois has been the riding’s Member of Parliament since the 2019 federal election, new Prime Minister Mark Carney and uncertainty caused by the trade war with the United States has vastly boosted Liberal prospects across the province and country.
In thanking Gull-Masty for her “unwavering dedication and service to Eeyou Istchee,” the Grand Council reiterated the importance of progressive federal partnerships that benefit our region as a whole.
“Sending a strong and principled voice to represent us in Parliament… is an opportunity fully supported by the Cree Nation,” read the statement. “Mista mikwetc, Mandy, sook!”