Custom Election Law
The Custom Election Law is now in effect
In February 2026, Lac Seul First Nation members voted to approve a new Custom Election Law. Following federal approval in June 2026, Lac Seul First Nation was removed from the election provisions under Section 74 of the Indian Act.
The Custom Election Law gives Lac Seul greater control over how Chief and Council are elected and reflects years of community engagement and input.
The first election under the new Custom Election Law will take place November 13, 2026.
How We Got Here
2023 – Good Governance Project launched and community engagement began
2024–2025 – Community Working Group, surveys, meetings and community information sessions helped shape the Election Law
February 2026 – LSFN members approved the Custom Election Law through a community vote
June 2026 – Federal approval was received and LSFN was removed from the Section 74 election system
November 13, 2026 – First election under the new Custom Election Law
Frequently Asked Questions
-
A Custom Election Law allows Lac Seul First Nation to establish its own rules for selecting Chief and Council rather than having its elections governed by the election provisions of the Indian Act.
-
No. The change relates specifically to the provisions governing elections.
-
All eligible LSFN voters can vote for Chief and all Councillor positions, whether they live on or off reserve.
-
Ten Councillors are elected: two from each of the three on-reserve communities, two Off-Reserve Councillors and two At-Large/General Councillors.
-
Four years.
-
Yes. Future amendments can be made through the process established in the Custom Election Law.