Q7. What ethical dilemmas arise when allegations against public figures become instruments of political mobilisation? Discuss how accountability can be pursued without compromising fairness and due process. (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: NIE
Why the question
The ethical tensions created when allegations against public figures move from legitimate scrutiny to political mobilisation, especially in an era of intense media and social-media amplification.Key Demand of the question
The answer should identify the major ethical dilemmas arising from politicisation of allegations and explain how accountability can coexist with fairness, impartiality and due process. It requires balancing competing democratic and ethical values rather than taking a partisan position.Structure of the Answer:
Introduction
Establish that democratic accountability requires scrutiny of public figures, but ethical legitimacy demands that allegations are tested through evidence, fair procedure and impartial institutions rather than treated as established guilt.Body
- Ethical dilemmas arising from political mobilisation: Discuss the tensions between public accountability and presumption of innocence, public interest and reputation, political expression and responsible communication, and popular mobilisation and institutional justice.
- Securing accountability with fairness and due process: Suggest an approach centred on evidence-based investigation, institutional impartiality, responsible media conduct, opportunity to respond and adherence to procedural safeguards, ensuring neither impunity nor prejudgment.
Conclusion
Conclude that a healthy democracy must protect both the right to demand accountability and the right to fair treatment, making institutional due process the bridge between public scrutiny and legitimate justice.
