David Harper seeks re-election as MKO grand chief

David Harper is seeking a third term as grand chief of Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO), the organization that represents northern First Nations in the province.

Harper is running against three other candidatesinMKO's grand chief election, which will take place Sept. 2 at the Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation in Nelson House, Man.

The organization's electoral officer released the list of nominated candidates on Thursday. They are:

• Tyler Duncan of the Norway House Cree Nation.
• David Harper of the Garden Hill First Nation
• William Elvis Thomas of the Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation.
• Sheila North Wilson of the Bunibonibee Cree Nation.

Harper was first elected in 2009 and re-elected in 2012.

He was recently accused of misspending money at MKO, a non-profit, political advocacy organization that represents 30 northern First Nations.

Last year, member chiefs demanded Harper's suspension during an audit of the organization's finances. Herefused, saying those personal expenses were paid back through payroll deductions.

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