Maladministration refers to the act or practice of mismanaging or mishandling the affairs of an organization, institution, or governmental body. It is characterized by a lack of competence, inefficiency, negligence, or improper conduct in the administration of duties. Maladministration can occur in various contexts, including public administration, corporate management, educational institutions, or any other entity responsible for overseeing and executing tasks.
In the public sector, maladministration often refers to the improper or inadequate handling of public resources, policies, or services by government officials. It may involve actions such as corruption, bribery, favoritism, or abuse of power. Maladministration can result in the infringement of citizens' rights, financial losses, misallocation of resources, or failure to deliver essential services.
In the corporate realm, maladministration can manifest as poor decision-making, weak governance, financial mismanagement, or the failure to comply with legal or ethical standards. Such practices may harm stakeholders, shareholders, or employees, jeopardize the company's financial stability, and erode public trust.
Maladministration implies a deviation from established standards of administration, where there is a significant departure from the expected level of competence, diligence, transparency, or accountability. It is often considered a detrimental practice that undermines the effectiveness, integrity, and credibility of the entity involved, leading to negative consequences for all parties impacted.
