FSIN Vice-Chief David Pratt, pictured at Meewasin Trail. Photo: APTN file
David Pratt is the first person to announce his intention to run to be the new national chief of the Assembly of First Nations.
Pratt currently serves as a vice-chief with the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations, an organization representing 74 First Nations in Saskatchewan.
His platform focuses on unity and inclusion, reconciliation and rights, economic empowerment and environmental stewardship.
“My experience working here and building consensus within our region – as well as across the country and other regions – compelled me and I think that I can do a good job, and I can build that consensus and bring our chiefs together,” Pratt told APTN News.
The upcoming election comes after the dramatic ouster of former national chief Roseanne Archibald, who was voted out after colleagues alleged she created a toxic work environment, and who has continued to deny the allegations.
Pratt says the AFN is at a “critical juncture” and the election is about restoring and rebuilding the national organization.
“What we witnessed the last few years at the AFN … (is) seeing the lack of movement on a number of our very important files,” he said.
The election is set to take place during a special assembly in December.
-with files by Fraser Needham
