“Controlled opposition” refers to a tactic often employed by those in power to manipulate and control public dissent or opposition movements. It involves the creation or support of opposition groups or individuals who appear to challenge the existing order but are actually controlled or influenced by the establishment. The purpose behind controlled opposition is to maintain control over the narrative and prevent genuine opposition from gaining traction or threatening the status quo. In essence, controlled opposition is a strategy to co-opt and manipulate dissent, rather than genuinely addressing or resolving the underlying issues or concerns raised by the opposition.