Patron-client politics is a system where political support is exchanged for personal favors or services. This form of governance operates on a network of reciprocal relationships, where a powerful patron provides resources or protection to clients in return for loyalty and electoral support. Such relationships can foster dependency and inhibit democratic accountability, as clients may prioritize personal gain over collective interests. This system is prevalent in many countries, particularly where formal institutions are weak, and has implications for political stability and governance quality, often leading to pervasive corruption.