The phrase "mere pretext" means an excuse that is not genuine or valid. It refers to a reason or justification that is used to hide the real intention or motive behind an action. Full definition
To do so would be to leave the field to those who use human rights as a mere pretext for imposing the views of the powerful upon the weak. (firstthings.com)
All of the noisy speechifying seems a mere pretext for the grown - up Scout's emotional grandstanding. (firstthings.com)
Tinubu noted that the shift in the dates for the general elections was a mere pretext by the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP to gain time to perfect its rigging machine. (dailypost.ng)