What does "divestment" mean in relation to public officials?

Divestment in the context of public officials refers specifically to the transfer of title or the disposal of interest in property. This concept is crucial for maintaining ethical standards, as it helps prevent conflicts of interest and ensures that public officials do not use their position to gain personal financial benefits. By divesting, a public official can eliminate any potential biases that could arise from holding certain interests in assets, investments, or properties that may influence their actions in office.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the principles surrounding divestment. Acquisition of property and investment in state-owned enterprises both imply the opposite of divestment, as they involve increases in ownership and financial stakes. Additionally, purchasing stocks in private corporations also represents an increase in personal investment rather than the relinquishment of interests or assets. Thus, the focus on divestment is related to ethical governance and transparency, which underscores why the second option is the correct interpretation in this context.