How does consensus government work in the Northwest Territories Legislative Assembly?

In the Northwest Territories, the Legislative Assembly operates without a system of political parties. Instead, the government functions through a consensus-based model where decision making is determined by majority vote.1

Under this framework, members of the assembly are elected as independents. Once in office, they collectively choose a speaker, a government leader (the premier), and an executive council (cabinet) from among themselves. The executive council is responsible for managing the legislative agenda and directing government policy, while those members not appointed to the cabinet serve as an "unofficial opposition" to hold the government accountable.1

While the federal government in Ottawa retains ultimate constitutional responsibility for the territory, the administration in Yellowknife exercises most provincial-level powers. All legislation passed by the assembly is technically subject to the assent of a federally appointed commissioner, though this role is primarily ceremonial.1