AFN chief Phil Fontaine won't run for re-election

Assembly of First Nations Chief Phil Fontaine said he won't run for a fourth term as leader of Canada's largest Aboriginal organization.

Fontaine, 64, a member of the Sagkeeng First Nation of Manitoba, described his time at the AFN as "the best job that I have ever had." One of his major achievements was helping negotiate a $1.9 settlement of residential board school cases, a deal that came with an official apology from the Canadian government.

"This has been my life's work, and I will continue to serve my people," Fontaine said, CBC News reported. He is rumored to be considering a run for public office.

AFN will elect a new chief in July.

Get the Story:
Fontaine to step down as Assembly of First Nations chief (CBC 6/4)
Fontaine won't reapply for 'best job' he ever had (CP 6/5)
First Nations Fontaine targets poverty, confirms he will step down (The Winnipeg Free Press 6/5)
Fontaine won't seek re-election (The Globe and Mail 6/5)