Q7. What is conflict between public duty and private interest? Discuss how such conflicts can affect administrative decision-making. (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: TH
Why the question
Conflict of interest is one of the most common ethical challenges in public administration and directly affects integrity, impartiality and public trust in governance.
Key Demand of the question
The question requires explaining the concept of conflict between public duty and private interest and examining how such conflicts influence the quality, fairness and credibility of administrative decision-making.
Structure of the Answer:
Introduction
Define conflict of interest and link it with the ethical values of integrity, objectivity and public service.
Body
- Meaning of conflict between public duty and private interest: Explain how personal interests can potentially interfere with impartial discharge of official responsibilities.
- Impact on administrative decision-making: Discuss how conflicts of interest affect objectivity, fairness, public trust and governance outcomes.
Conclusion
Emphasise that ethical governance requires public servants to place public interest above personal considerations through integrity, transparency and accountability.
