LA RONGE — Lac La Ronge Indian Band Chief Tammy Cook Searson has announced she will not seek reelection when her term ends in March 2026, bringing more than 28 years of service on council to a close.
In a statement issued Tuesday, Dec. 23, Cook Searson thanked band members for the opportunity to serve as chief for more than 20 years, in addition to eight years as a band councillor.
“I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the LLRIB membership for the opportunity to serve as your Chief for over 20 years and as a band councillor for eight years,” she said. “Serving the LLRIB membership of over 12,700 both on and off reserve … has been the greatest honour of my life.”
Cook Searson said the decision followed reflection and conversations with her family.
“After reflection and conversations with my family, I have decided not to seek reelection for Chief in March 2026,” she said. “As difficult as it is to announce that I will not seek another term, the time has come for me to focus on being a wife, mother and kohkum.”
She said she will continue to fulfill her duties until the end of her term, which concludes the day before nominations open.
Cook Searson also acknowledged the support of her family, including her husband Jim, children Vanessa, Aileen and Hessam, and her grandchildren. She paid tribute to her late parents, Charlie and Miriam Cook, crediting them with instilling values of hard work, compassion, generosity and a strong connection to Woodland Cree culture, language and traditions.
Reflecting on her time as chief, Cook Searson said the Lac La Ronge Indian Band and its business arm, Kit Saki Management Limited Partnership, are in strong financial positions, with a combined workforce of approximately 2,900 employees.
“We have built upon the solid foundation laid by our past leaders and band membership,” she said, pointing to achievements such as successful treaty and agricultural benefits claims, investments in infrastructure, improved fire protection, housing development and the establishment of the Woodland Wellness Centre.
Cook Searson also noted the First Nation’s resilience through major challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, wildfires, evacuations and ongoing mental health crises.
“Together, we have persevered and emerged stronger,” she said.
Since the announcement, more than 1,200 people have responded on social media, with hundreds of comments thanking Cook Searson for her leadership and wishing her well. Many praised her communication and steady leadership, particularly during northern Saskatchewan wildfire emergencies.
In closing her message, Cook Searson offered holiday wishes to the community.
“Thank you for your trust and for the opportunity to serve Lac La Ronge Indian Band membership,” she said. “I wish you and your families Merry Christmas blessings and all the best in the New Year 2026.”
