The term "political fragmentation" refers to a situation where political authority and power are divided among various groups, leading to a lack of consensus and coherence within a political system. This can occur in societies with multiple political parties, interest groups, or ethnic divisions that create competing agendas. The result often includes polarization in public opinion, weakened governmental decision-making, and challenges in policy implementation. In extreme cases, it can lead to instability and a decline in public trust in institutions, hampering effective governance.