Nunavut MLA and cabinet minister David Akeeagok won't run again in Quttiktuq

Nunavut cabinet minister David Akeeagok says he won't be seeking re-election in the territory's high Arctic in the next territorial election.

Akeeagok holds a number of portfolios in cabinet, including community services and human resources, as well as being the minister responsible for mines, trade, and the Workers' Safety and Compensation Commission.

He announced his decision to not run again in the Quttiktuq riding on Tuesday in the legislative assembly. 

Speaking in Inuktitut, he said he made the decision "because I want to be with my family."

He also thanked his constituents in his Quttiktuq riding, saying "words are not even enough to express my gratitude."

Akeeagok was first elected MLA of Quttiktuq in 2017 and was acclaimed to a second term in 2021. The riding includes the communities of Resolute Bay, Arctic Bay, and Grise Fiord, where Akeeagok was raised. 

Speaking to CBC News, he said that representing the three widely separated communities "has become a challenge."

He says he was especially proud to represent his home community of Grise Fiord.

"It's one community that does not get as much attention as it should," he said.

The next territorial election will happen in October. Akeeagok said he wanted to announce his decision now so that anybody interested in running for the Quttiktuq seat has time to think about it.  

"It's a family decision and it's a tough decision when you want to put your name forward," he said.