Derek Nepinak has been re-elected grand chief of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs after receiving 26 of a possible 48 votes on the first ballot.
Nepinak was challenged for the leadership by Chief Sheldon Kent of the Black River First Nation and Chief Donovan Fontaine of the Sagkeeng First Nation.
Fontaine received 16 votes and Kent six.
In his acceptance speech, Nepinak thanked his wife and family for their support and said leadership was a responsibility that he does not take lightly.
He vowed to continue the work he has been doing in Manitoba and nationally.
Nepinak thanked his opponents for offering diverse views during the campaign and presented each of them with a gift.
The vote took place at the Swan Lake First Nation's casino and gas bar in Headingley. A total of 48 Manitoba chiefs cast ballots.
