If Premier Bob McLeod has decided whether he will run in this fall’s territorial election, he is keeping his decision private, at least for now.
Some observers expected the only two-term premier in the history of the Northwest Territories to announce his retirement on the final day of the 18th Legislative Assembly on Friday.
It didn’t happen.
McLeod told CKLB earlier in the summer that he still hadn’t made up his mind on whether to run.
His brother, NWT MP Michael McLeod, told CKLB last week that the premier hadn’t shared his plans with him.
Through the premier’s office, CKLB requested an interview with the McLeod last week, looking for an update.
“At this time, things are just simply too hectic. As this is an MLA request, it would have to go through (his constituency office) and (they) may be able to assist,” stated Trista Haugland, spokesperson for the premier in an email last week.
CKLB made a pitch to his constituency assistant for an interview but it never materialized.
A McLeod staffer, who wished to remain anonymous, told CKLB Friday that he had “absolutely no idea” whether his boss was going to run again.
McLeod, who is in his mid-60s, is from Fort Providence.
He has represented the riding of Yellowknife South since 2007 and beame premier in 2011.
McLeod is currently the longest serving premier in Canada.
Lawyer Caroline Wawzonek and corporate executive Gaeleen MacPherson are believed to be the only declared candidates in Yellowknife South so far.
McLeod has until 2:00 pm on Sept. 6 to declare his intention to seek re-election.