Tyler Duncan, 19, launches bid to become MKO grand chief

A 19-year-old man from Norway House Cree Nation has set his sights on becoming grand chief ofManitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO), which represents 30 northern Manitoba First Nations.

Tyler Duncan, who said he isrunning to bring unity within MKO's First Nations, launched his election campaign Friday in Winnipeg.

Hehas held three terms as youth chief of Norway House Cree Nation, oneterm as youth grand chief for MKO youth council, and hasalso run for the presidency of the Manitoba NDP.

Current MKO Grand Chief David Harper, who wasfirst elected in 2009 and re-elected in 2012, has recently faced criticism and some calls to step down, foraccepting money from the Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO).

He also faced allegations of using MKO money for personal spending in 2014. But Harpersaid those expenses were paid back through payroll deductions.

The election is set forSept.2, and will be held in Nelson House.