While the courts sort out the results of the Aug. 19 general election for Gwich'in Tribal Council Grand Chief, an interim grand chief has been appointed to keep things going.

An announcement by the GTC that Michael Greenland has been appointed interim chief as of Sept. 12 was published on Monday.

"The Interim Grand Chief will be in place until the Northwest Territories Supreme Court makes its determination of the Originating Notice filed by Grand Chief candidate Frederick Blake Jr., currently scheduled to be heard on October 30, 2024," reads the posting, attributed to Jamie Koe, CEO of the tribal council. "Mr. Greenland will hold the position until a decision has been reached by the court and the conclusion of any further election processes that may be required resulting from that decision.

"The Board recognizes that the GTC is in a transitional period and wants to ensure that the GTC continues to operate in a fair and transparent manner. The Board also recognizes the obligations the GTC must continue to provide high-quality programming and services for our Participants. Examples are the GTC must continue to provide programming such as the Healing Camp at the GwichSA国际影视传媒檌n Wellness Camp, complete the new 20 home project and continue to serve our GwichSA国际影视传媒檌n Participants."

The posting notes that while the intent is to keep the ball rolling while the leadership issue is sorted out, the interim leadership has been directed to avoid making "controversial" decisions and adds the official leadership will be able to reverse decisions once a decision is made by the NWT Supreme Court on Oct. 30.