Waterhen Lake First Nation. Photo courtesy waterhenlakeschool.ca

The longtime chief of Waterhen Lake First Nation has been ousted in what the band manager is calling a very close election.

Carol Bernard was running for her fourth term as chief of the Meadow Lake-area First Nation, but was beat out by former band councillor Joanne Roy.

There are a few new faces on council as well with Dustin Ross Fiddler, David Fleury, Karnella Fiddler and Ableheza Ernest joining the re-elected councillors Dennis Martell and Blaine Fiddler.

Waterhen is one of a number of First Nations elections going on this month, with Canoe Lake voting for chief and council on Friday.

Chief Iron Francis is seeking re-election against four opponents There are well over 30 council candidates.