The massive public opinion backlash experienced by politically implicated persons in the accounting profession, demonstrates the risk of reputational damage when the fundamental principles guiding professionals in the accounting sector fall by the wayside. These fundamental principles of the Code of Professional Conduct and Ethical Behaviour include integrity, professional behaviour, due care, competence and objectivity. When these fundamental principles are violated through the conduct of professional accountants, then questions are raised about the value and quality of the work they have performed. Objectivity requires a critical independent mind by professional accountants when carrying out their duties and responsibilities. In the realm of professional accountants, the highest form of assurance is "audit assurance" to the users who rely on the information presented in the financial statements. It is for this reason that their conduct should be beyond reproach. If there is any fo...
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