MCA election results: No change

The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne’s Kawehno:ke district went to the polls Saturday for a by-election for the four Kawehno:ke district chiefs. The special election was called following an appeal that was made regarding the original regular election results back in June of this year.

A total of 224 eligible votes were cast Saturday and Island residents voted to keep the four chiefs they originally elected. Abram Benedict, Wesley Benedict, Brian David and Cheryl Jacobs were each successful in being elected again after having all been elected in June as well. Abram Benedict received 132 votes, Wesley Benedict received 129 votes, David received 125 votes and Jacobs received 123 votes.

Other candidates – who had to have been candidates on the June ballot as well – were Kateri Benedict, Lloyd Benedict, Nona Benedict, Dennis Chaussi, Antoine Junior Delormier, April Elaine Lazore, Laura Morris, and Robert White.

Two votes were rejected or void and one voter was denied a vote because they were not on the eligible voters list.

According to MCA, the district chief’s term began on Nov. 7 – the day of the election. An appeal period for the by-election is open until 5 p.m. on Nov. 12, 2009, after which time the swearing-in ceremony will be scheduled if no appeals are received. If an appeal is received the Akwesasne Election Appeal Board must made a decision within 14 days.