What must public officials ensure regarding their business interests?

Public officials are required to disclose their business interests in their Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN). This requirement is designed to promote transparency and accountability in public service. By disclosing their business interests, public officials allow the public to scrutinize potential conflicts of interest, ensuring that personal financial interests do not interfere with their official duties.

The rationale behind this provision is rooted in ethical governance, where officials must uphold the highest standards of integrity. The SALN serves as a tool for public vigilance, allowing citizens to see if public officials are acting in the public’s best interest rather than for personal gain.

The other options do not align with these principles. Keeping business interests secretive would undermine transparency and could lead to corruption. Engaging in business as they please without oversight could create conflicts of interest that jeopardize ethical governance. Avoiding any business interests altogether might not be practical or necessary, as public officials can operate businesses as long as they are transparent about their interests and ensure they do not affect their public responsibilities.