caciquism

kəsɪˈkwaɪzəm

Definitions

1. noun

A system or practice in which local leaders or bosses wield significant political or economic power in a particular region, often in a corrupt or autocratic manner.

“The region was plagued by caciquism, with local leaders exploiting their power for personal gain.”

Synonyms

  • bossism
  • clientelism

Antonyms

  • democratization
  • republicanism