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> The fertilizer subsidy program (FISP) consumes up to three-fourths the agriculture budget in some years to subsidize maize inputs for smallholders. It is poli
by JumpCrisscross 6mo ago
> The fertilizer subsidy program (FISP) consumes up to three-fourths the agriculture budget in some years to subsidize maize inputs for smallholders. It is politically untouchable because rural maize farmers are the median voter. Several administrations have made some attempt to reform it and backed down. Resources that could go to roads, irrigation, or diversification go to propping up the existing structure.
Idk, this one doesn't seem super difficult to diagnose. The political system has been captured by a special interest with consolidated control.
- rafram 6mo agoThat describes plenty of very rich countries as well.
- JumpCrisscross 6mo ago> describes plenty of very rich countries as well Special interests, yes. Consolidation–as in a unified interest group representing a commanding majority of the economy–no. At least none that aren’t similarly stagnating.
- dash2 6mo agoBut that is the opposite of what the article says. It blames the “median voter”, ie the majority, not special interests.