stirring up trouble to get credit for solving it; profiting from problems one created
Describes a manipulative pattern where someone creates a problem and then steps in to resolve it, gaining praise or advantage. Often used critically in social or political commentary.
wasei-eigo (Japanese-coined English), from match · wasei (Japanese coinage from Dutch), from pomp
His method is a perfect example of match-pump: he creates a problem and then solves it to look good.
That politician is gathering support by stirring up trouble and then resolving it.