REGINA - Cowessess First Nation Chief Cadmus Delorme has confirmed he is not running again in the upcoming band elections.
“Cowessess First Nation election is in April 2023. I will not be seeking another term. There are three months left in this term and look forward to continuing to work with many to continue our growth,” Delorme stated on Facebook.
“It was not a easy decision,” he added.
Delorme had come to national prominence following the news of 751 unmarked graves found at the reserve. In the news stories that followed, Delorme served as the face of the First Nation.
In his Facebook post, Delorme pointed to several accomplishments on the Cowessess reserve during his time as Chief.
“The past seven years we progressed forward creating Cowessess Ventures, a business organization to create and enhance renewable energy projects, urban development and more. We strengthened agriculture, now farming over 6500 acres. We control more of our destiny in child welfare reform with Chief Red Bear Children’s Lodge. The Cree and Saulteaux languages are getting stronger in our home fires. The Cowessess Constitution is ratified affirming rights and responsibilities. A new governance structure is implemented guiding us to think beyond the Indian Act model. A new judicial system, Eagle Woman Tribunal, will help in our decision making and most importantly, staff committed to helping assure we run a forward thinking government. It is now time to transition to new endeavours and hope we treat each other with respect in our continuous growth.”
“It has been an honour to serve as Chief of Cowessess First Nation,” Delorme stated.
Delorme will continue to serve as Chief until after the conclusion of band elections scheduled for April 2023.
