ACCA Strategic Professional · Strategic Business Leader · Public sector governance

A state-owned water utility's board member learns that the utility has been discharging pollutants above permitted limits, and the minister asks her to keep it quiet to avoid embarrassment before an election. Which action is most consistent with her ethical obligations as a public sector board member?

She should raise the issue through internal governance channels and, if it is not resolved, escalate to the regulator or whistleblowing procedures. Her duty is to the public interest, so political embarrassment is no reason for silence, and escalation should follow proper steps rather than concealment or immediate leaks.

AComply with the minister, as the minister is the owner
BRaise the matter through internal governance channels and, if unresolved, escalate to the regulator or use whistleblowing proceduresCorrect
CResign silently without giving reasons
DLeak the information to the media immediately before using any internal channel

Explanation

Public interest overrides political convenience. The appropriate path is to use internal channels first, then escalate to the regulator or whistleblowing routes if needed. Complying breaches integrity and accountability, silent resignation leaves the harm unaddressed, and immediate leaking skips proper procedures.

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