Conversation so far:
how did the mongol empire run its government
The Mongol Empire was a formidable military power and maintained internal control by a system of draconian laws that demanded strict obedience and loyalty.
In what manner was a khan determined in the Mongol Empire?
Khans after Ögödei were elected by the Kurultai, who served as a consultative body for the ruler.
How were positions in the Mongol Empire's government filled?
The highest offices of government were meted out by the khan according to merit, not inheritance.

Question: Who were the senior officials in the empire?
Self-contained rewrite: Who were the senior officials in the Mongol Empire?