Principles and structures of indirect rule on British colonial administration - SS2 Government Past Questions and Answers - page 1

They were given limited power to govern their communities

Preservation of traditional systems

To maintain control and authority over the territories

Marginalization of some groups

By collaborating with traditional leaders to make decisions

The system of indirect rule relied on traditional rulers and institutions to govern the territories, which reduced the need for a large number of British officials and troops. This allowed the British to maintain control with minimal resources.

The system of indirect rule allowed for the preservation of local customs and traditions, including traditional systems of justice, administration, and taxation. However, the system also had drawbacks, such as the consolidation of power in the hands of a few elites who were often loyal to the British rather than to the people they governed.