Cronyism

Cronyism is partiality to long-standing friends, especially by appointing them to public office without regard for their qualifications. The word "cronyism" is always used derogatorily.

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Governments are particularly susceptible to accusations of cronyism as they spend public money. This is why democratic governments are encouraged to have transparency in their accounting and contracting processes.

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Virtually all Presidents of the United States have been accused of cronyism by someone at some time. But since the word means appointment of long-standing friends who are not qualified for the position, the appointment of long-standing friends who are qualified is not cronyism; this would be more akin to political patronage, where political supporters or merely members of the same party are appointed by the patron in power.

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Democratic: REDIRECT Democracy...

Transparency: Transparency can refer to:...

Accounting: REDIRECT Accountancy...