Samuel Nuqingaq facts for kids

Samuel Nuqingaq is an Inuk politician from Qikiqtarjuaq, Nunavut, Canada. He was chosen to represent the people of Uqqummiut in the Legislative Assembly of Nunavut. He was elected in the 2013 election. He served as an MLA until 2014.

Political Journey

Becoming an MLA

Samuel Nuqingaq ran for election in the area called Uqqummiut. In the 2013 election, his race was very close. On election night, he was tied with another candidate, Niore Iqalukjuak. Both had 187 votes.

A recount of the votes happened on November 5, 2013. After the recount, Samuel Nuqingaq had 187 votes. Niore Iqalukjuak had 185 votes. This small difference meant Samuel Nuqingaq won the election. He became the MLA for Uqqummiut.

Time in Office

As an MLA, Samuel Nuqingaq was expected to attend meetings and sessions. In March 2014, he was suspended from the legislature. This meant he could not attend meetings or get paid. The suspension happened because he missed some important orientation days. He also missed the start of a leadership meeting.

Later, his suspension was extended. He returned to the legislature in September 2014.

Leaving the Legislature

On October 24, 2014, the other MLAs in Nunavut made a decision. They all agreed to remove Samuel Nuqingaq from his seat. This meant his position as an MLA became empty right away. A new election had to be held for the Uqqummiut area.

The Justice Minister, Paul Okalik, explained the decision. He said that Samuel Nuqingaq had often been absent from meetings. He had also missed committee gatherings without good reasons. The legislature felt it was important for MLAs to be present and active.