What was the process of indirect control when managing a colony?

The process of indirect control in the system of colonialism is one where the colonial power, rather than sending an official from the mother country to the colony to lead, allows the colonists to lead while still pledging allegiance to the colonial power. This process was used very frequently in Africa during the mid - to late-1800s and into the 1900s. A European power would claim a colony in Africa, but rather than sending a European to lead the colony, they would allow the native form of government to continue; however, that government would be subject to the laws and requests of the mother country.