In what ways did colonial rule contribute to the decline of the powers of the...

Explanation

(i) Colonial rule led to the collapse of the existing links between the traditional rulers and their subjects making the . former appendages of alien government.

(ii) The introduction of salaried job to the working subjects empowered the subjects to be independent of the ruler because of financial clout arising from their salary.

(iii) The impact of Western education and westernization of life led to the collapse of traditional norms and values of society e.g. homage to and respect for the traditional rulers. Traditional values were eroded by the new values of the whiterhan.

(iv) The influence of foreign religion scaled down the power of the traditional rulers as the spiritual authority of their people.

(v) Establishment of law courts by the colonialists eroded the judicial powers of the traditional rulers.

(vi) Establishment of legislative council by the colonialists reduced the law making functions of traditional rulers.

(vii) Colonialism introduced Native/Local authorities which took over the traditional rulers absolute control over taxation and its disbursement.

(viii) Forced labour and conscription by the colonialists reduced the popularity of the traditional rulers.

(ix) Stoppage of inter-tribal wars put an end to the means by which traditional rulers accumulated wealth.

(x) Power to appoint and depose which was vested in the colonial governors reduced the prestige of traditional rulers and misdirected their loyalty.