In pre-Muslim times, the Maldives system of government consisted of something similar to that of Sri Lanka, though modified because of the geography. The monarchy had a centralized power structure and opponents of this were exiled. These characteristics are representative of the Maldives islands' government throughout the course of history.
During these early years, the Maldives were frequently ruled by queens, and even in later years women remained influential in the political realm at the highest levels of government, though in spite of this, it is rare for women to hold office there.