Q7. Distinguish between an actual, potential and perceived conflict of interest. Why must public officials avoid all three? (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: TH
Why the question
Different forms of conflict of interest and their implications for integrity, impartiality and public trust in administration.
Key Demand of the question
Differentiate among actual, potential and perceived conflicts of interest with appropriate illustrations. Explain why public officials must identify, disclose and avoid all three forms.
Structure of the Answer:
Introduction
Introduce conflict of interest as a situation where private interests interfere, may interfere or appear to interfere with the objective performance of public duty.
Body
- Forms of conflict of interest: Differentiate actual, potential and perceived conflicts according to whether the clash with public duty is present, foreseeable or apparent to a reasonable observer.
- Need to avoid all three: Explain their implications for administrative impartiality, prevention of misconduct, decisional legitimacy, institutional reputation and citizens’ trust.
Conclusion
Conclude by presenting disclosure, divestment, recusal and reassignment as essential instruments of preventive integrity in public administration.
