Q15.What is mean by conflict of interest? Illustrate with examples, the difference between the actual and potential conflicts of interest.
Introduction
Conflict of interest arises when a person's private interests (personal, financial, family, social) could improperly influence their official duties, compromising impartiality and public trust.
Body
Actual Conflict of Interest
An actual conflict exists when a public official's private interests are currently influencing their official duties or decisions. Example: A government official awarding a contract to a company owned by their spouse.
Potential Conflict of Interest
A potential conflict arises when a public official has private interests that could influence their official duties in the future, even if not currently. Example: A public servant owning shares in a company that might bid for a government contract later.
Key Differences
The key difference is that actual conflict involves present influence, while potential conflict involves a future possibility of influence.
Conclusion
Managing both is crucial for maintaining integrity, transparency, and public confidence in governance.
139 words · target ~150