The Roots, Instances and Consequences of Electoral Corruption

Electoral corruption has a history as old as elections. However, to study and identify this phenomenon efforts have been undertaken by research and study centers mainly during the last two decades. This is more important in terms of consequences and devastating effects for a country and its political system. This essay examines various aspects of electoral corruption and gives an explanation of the roots of the incidence and prevalence of this phenomenon and explains its effects and consequences. It argues that this type of corruption has a significant effect especially in reducing the legitimacy of the political system and strengthening the possibility of internal conflict.