Political corruption significantly undermines democratic institutions by eroding public trust and distorting governance. Corruption leads to the misuse of power, hindering fair representation and perpetuating inequality. When officials engage in corrupt practices, such as bribery or nepotism, it compromises the integrity of decision-making processes and often results in policies that benefit a select few rather than the greater public. This deterioration of trust can disengage citizens from political participation, making it challenging to uphold democratic norms. Effective anti-corruption measures are crucial for strengthening institutions and fostering accountability in governance.