Case #1802.0

The Defense Minister's Decision

Publication Date: August 04, 2005
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Abstract:
An elected but corrupt populist President, who is completing his second term, has suggested that he will remain in office by whatever means necessary. Large segments of the public in the capital city take to the streets to demand that the President be removed from office. The efforts of the Presidential security forces to put down the protests have only led to violence. The President personally calls the Defense Minister and orders him to subdue the protests by whatever means are necessary. The Minister has little time to decide whether to deploy the armed forces against their fellow citizens or to disobey a direct order from the President.

Learning Objective:
The case is suited for discussions of a public official's responsibilities to political superiors when he or she believes them to be in conflict with the national interest.

Other Details

Case Author:
John W. Thomas
Faculty Lead:
John W. Thomas
Pages (incl. exhibits):
2
Setting:
United States
Language:
English