Michael Nadli to run again for Deh Cho MLA after suspension, jail sentence

Michael Nadli says he will be seeking re-election as the MLA for Deh Cho.

Nadli was suspended from the N.W.T. legislative assembly earlier this month after he was sentenced to 45 days in jail for assault causing bodily harm.

• RELATED|Michael Nadli, Deh Cho MLA, suspended after being sentenced to jail for assault

The charge stemmed from an April incident at his home in Fort Providence, in whichNadli assaulted hisspouse. The victim was left with a broken wrist.

Nadli's lawyer had asked for a conditional discharge but thejudge sentenced him to jail, saying domestic violence is a big problem in the North andthere had to be "real consequences."

It wasthe second time Nadli had been convicted of assault. In 2004 he was sentenced to six months probation for assaulting his spouse.

Because he was sentenced to jail on this conviction, Nadli was suspended from the legislative assembly.People imprisoned in a correctional institution are not eligible to run for MLA.

Nadli was released last week after serving only eight days in jail. He submitted an application for early leave and was approved.

"I'm truly sorry for whathappened," Nadli said. "I'd like to move on with my life.

"Being incarcerated gives you time to reflect, and there were some deep moments where the pendulum of thoughts swung both ways. Either you don't run, or you continue the work.

"I think people have the confidencein me in terms of the work that I do on their behalf.They still think I'm stillcapable of representing people effectively in theDeh Cho riding."

Nadlisays he regrets his actions, which he said were "out of character" and "a mistake."

The N.W.T. Department of Justice would not answer specific questions about why Nadli was released early, but itsaid an inmate can apply for releaseafter serving one-sixth of his or her sentence. Factors considered include the treatment sought by the inmate and the risk he or she will pose to people in the community.