clientelism
Clientelism is the exalted political art of reeling in support with the bait of favors. Beneath the visible handouts lies the ironic reality of dependence and inequality. It speaks lofty fairness while flipping loyalties faster than a secret ballot. From a village water supply to the national budget, all hinges on the pocketbook of the electoral district. Once the election ends, the favors vanish like morning mist.