Yellowknife, N.W.T. - Bryan Sutherland, who ran in Kam Lake during the 2011 territorial election, has paid his debt to Elections NWT.

Sutherland was one of two candidates who had filed their financial reports late and he ponied up a $250 fine, along with signing a compliance agreement, meaning he is now up to date.

Chief electoral officer David Brock said people need to remember that filing a financial report is simply more than just a clerical tool.

"These candidate financial reports are a measure to provide some transparency to the electoral process, in terms of how candidates and their official agents are receiving contributions and expending money for their campaigns."

Sutherland had his case in territorial court and because he signed the agreement, the proceedings have been stayed.

Had they continued, Brock said Sutherland could have faced a range of punishments.

"A major election offence can be complete with a serious fine, upwards of $5,000, imprisonment up to one year, and can also include the removal of the right to vote, the right to stand as a candidate, and the right to receive appointment by the Commissioner."

All 44 candidates from the election have now submitted financial reports.

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