Samuel Nuqingaq facts for kids

Samuel Nuqingaq is an Inuk politician from Qikiqtarjuaq, Nunavut, Canada. He was chosen to be a member of the Legislative Assembly of Nunavut in the 2013 election. He was later removed from the assembly in 2014.

Samuel Nuqingaq's Political Journey

Becoming an MLA

Samuel Nuqingaq ran for election in the area called Uqqummiut. This was one of two places where the election results were tied in 2013. In the first count of votes, he and Niore Iqalukjuak both had 187 votes.

A second count of the votes happened on November 5, 2013. This time, Nuqingaq was found to have 187 votes, while Iqalukjuak had 185 votes. This meant Samuel Nuqingaq won the election.

Suspension from the Assembly

On March 6, 2014, Samuel Nuqingaq was suspended from the Legislative Assembly. This meant he could not attend meetings or get paid. He had been disciplined before for missing important meetings. His suspension was later extended.

Removal from Office

On October 24, 2014, all the members of the Nunavut Legislative Assembly voted to remove Samuel Nuqingaq from his seat. This meant his position became empty right away, and a new election had to be held.

Justice Minister Paul Okalik said that the assembly had spent too much time dealing with Nuqingaq's actions. He explained that Nuqingaq had been disciplined for "unacceptable conduct." This included often being absent from assembly meetings and committee meetings without a good reason. The members felt it was important for the public that he be removed.