Struggle for Integrity in a Controversial Election

• 26 Dec 2023

You have been assigned the role of an observer to monitor the election proceedings of the sports federation in India, which has been embroiled in controversy due to allegations of sexual and mental exploitation against its outgoing president. Despite these serious accusations, the outgoing president, who holds significant influence and political connections, remains a formidable figure.

During the election under your supervision, you witness the manipulation of the process by a proxy candidate associated with the outgoing president. This manipulation involves coercing opposition candidates and manipulating votes. The fear of challenging the outgoing president's clout looms large, making it seemingly impossible for anyone to contest the irregularities. While you possess evidence of election rigging, the potential consequences, including threats to your personal and family life, deter you from reporting the misconduct to higher authorities.

What ethical considerations should guide your decision regarding whether to expose and report the election rigging despite the personal risks or to remain silent in the face of potential harm to you and your family?