The nomination period opened yesterday for Nunavut's territorial election and already it's clear there will be some interesting races.

Elections Nunavut says many people have already declared their candidacy. Pangnirtung mayor Sakiasi Sowdlooapik is running for MLA in that riding. He'll be up against Hezekiah Oshutapik, who is running for re-election.

And former Premier Paul Okalik will run in the riding of Iqaluit-Sinaa. That's the riding that activist Leesee Papatsie also intends to contest.

Monica Ell is also seeking re-election, in the riding of Iqaluit-Manirajak.

In the Arviat South riding, Airo Pameolik and Peter Alareak are running.

And in Arviat North, Elizabeth Copland is on the ballot.

Copland has taken a leave from her position as chair of the Nunavut Impact Review Board, to run.

And three people have declared in Gjoa Haven - Tony Akoak, Linda Hunter and Andrew Porter.

The deadline for candidates to submit their niomination papers is Friday, at 2 p.m.