North

Peter Johnston acclaimed new Council of Yukon First Nations grand chief

The former Teslin Tlingit Council chief was the lone nominee to replace Ruth Massie as grand chief. Johnston will be sworn in later this month.

Nominations closed Tuesday with only Johnston putting his name forward

Johnston is the former chief of the Teslin Tlingit Council. (CBC)

Former Teslin Tlingit Council chief Peter Johnston is set to take over the top job at the umbrella organization for Yukon First Nations.

He's been acclaimed as the next grand chief of the Council of Yukon First Nations (CYFN), succeeding Ruth Massie.

Nominations for the election of grand chief closed Tuesday and Johnston was the only person to put his name forward.

Outgoing CYFN grand chief Ruth Massie said she's ready to retire and work on her bucket list. (Philippe Morin/CBC)

Massie, who's held the post for six years, said she's pleased that Johnston is willing to take over. 

"It's an exciting time for Yukon First Nations as we need new energy and vision," she said in a statement.

Massie said she's ready to retire, relax and "work on my bucket list — which is pretty long."

Johnston will be sworn in during the CYFN's general assembly later this month. It's being hosted by the Little Salmon/Carmacks First Nation at Airport Lake, June 28 to 30.