Why can the appointment of Maasai chiefs be seen as a strategy of indirect rule?

Correct answer: Because colonial orders were enforced through local leadership

Under indirect rule, a colonial power controlled people through appointed local chiefs or traditional leaders. By appointing Maasai chiefs, the British administration could enforce orders, collect taxes, and manage local affairs without dealing directly with every pastoralist. Option B is incorrect because European officials did not withdraw from government; final authority remained with the colonial administration. Exam tip: link colonial control exercised through local leaders with indirect rule.