Dene people have traditionally hunted and trapped on the lands surrounding Great Slave Lake. Chiefs from the region have always tried to pattern their leadership after Akaitcho (left), who was well-known throughout what is now the Northwest Territories, and Northern Alberta and Saskatchewan for his leadership and skills on the land. Currently, Currently, Chiefs are elected to 3-year terms while Councillors usually serve 2-year terms.

Ed Sangris
Chief of the Yellowknives Dene Band (Dettah)

Steve Nitah
Chief, Lutsel K'e Dene First Nation

There currently is no elected Chief for the Deninu Kue First Nation.

Fred Sangris
Chief of the Yellowknives Dene Band (Ndilo)