Unpacking the experiences of corruption in local governments: a phenomenological study

Purpose This study aims to investigate how corruption is manifested, experienced and morally interpreted within local governments. Specifically, this study examines the manifestations of corruption, focusing on bribery, manipulation and egoistic interests; how these practices shape the lived experiences of local government officials and citizens in their day-to-day interactions; and how participants interpret corruption through duty-based ethical reasoning informed by deontological theory. Design/methodology/approach A phenomenological approach was adopted, drawing on in-depth interviews with local government officials and citizens. Thematic analysis was used to identify patterns of practice, lived experiences and moral interpretations of corruption. Findings The results reveal corruption as a structural, experiential and moral phenomenon. Bribery has become an institutionalised gatekeeping practice, manipulation operates through technical distortions and patronage networks and egoistic capture reflects systemic elite control. These practices undermine fairness, accountability and collective welfare. Citizens reported erosion of trust, diminished service quality and psychological disillusionment, while officials described coercion and complicity. Interpretations framed corruption as survival, betrayal of duty and institutional normality, illustrating its rationalisation and normalisation. Research limitations/implications Findings underscore the importance of depoliticising enforcement institutions, institutionalising transparency through digital procurement and embedding ethical accountability in recruitment and promotion to restore public trust. Practical implications This study highlights the need for reforms that simplify bureaucratic procedures, strengthen ethics training and enhance citizen-centred accountability mechanisms in local governments. Originality/value By integrating phenomenological evidence with deontological theory, the study demonstrates that corruption in local governments is not only inefficiency but also a systematic violation of duty-based obligations. The research advances conceptual, methodological and policy debates on corruption by combining structural, experiential and ethical dimensions.