If what Kieren says is true (or even if a portion of what he says is true), then this concerns a malfunction in an important organization that operates for the benefit of the public, which is surely has more weight than the comparatively narrow question of “professionalism.” In this respect I am reminded of accusations of misbehavior by the police, and the reluctance of fellow police officers to criticize another’s conduct, even when it might be reprehensible.

Surely a more responsible approach would be to conduct some sort of inquiry into whether the charges are true, and either publicly exonerate the individual if false, or if true, to make changes to the organizational culture that allowed such a thing to flourish.

In the U.S., there are numerous state and federal laws to protect “whistleblowers,” precisely because organizations feel the need to protect themselves, even at the cost of serious consequences to the public (think tobacco, think pollution). And in every case I know of, the whistleblower has made accusations public in full recognition of the likely cost to him or her personally. In the sober light of day, after emotions have cooled, time and again we have decided that the public interest demands that we listen to the messenger instead of shooting him.

Antony

That’s not the case with the wisdom of you commenting here in the way you have. If you want it removed, along with any responses, please just ask, no more said about it.

I was very saddeded to read this post. The best that can be said is that it is disgraceful.

You should be ashamed of yourself.

I think there are critical moments in everybody’s life (professional, public etc.) when you are scandalised about events, developments or people — and you don’t know what to do: being wise (as Jorge suggested), silent or courageous – what may be considered as unwise … I can understand Kieren’s feelings and dilemma and don’t know whether I would have chosen wisdom or courage (not having the privilege of youth any more) at Kieren’s place? I think Kieren had the self-forgotten courage to express what many people in the community observed and felt … And this delicate decision deserves respect as well.

Yes, I think you’re right, it does reflect badly on me. But I knew that was an inevitable consequence of publicly highlighting some unpleasant realities.

It would certainly have been easier and possibly wiser to let it go and draw comfort from the fact that the destructive influence had been extracted. But for some reason when I reflected on the impact of the years of continous abuse of power, I felt it would be more cowardly to say nothing.

I don’t expect you to agree with me, but there at least is my explanation.

I have the opportunity to share some thoughts with you in many ICANN Meetings and I learnt to consider you as a significant thinker and operator in this brave new world where ICANN navigates.
Actually, I had the opportunity to tell you personally that your strenght and eagerness for new challenges make me regret myself for the loss of these characteristics that the years took off from me. That made me think about what could I get in exchange of that loss.
After some thoughts I came to the obvious answer : youth and strenght are a a valuable asset when they may lead you to the wisdom that experience and season can add to your profile.
Unfortunately, at the moment I ought to tell you that your lack of experience, youth and natural expontainity seems to have led you to a wrong turn.
I hope your inner wisdom and natural skills might use this event to improve the excpetional human being I´d like to call a friend.

all the best

Jorge

I was still in two minds whether to publish or delete when I hit submit. I think my rationale is that I did not disclose or highlight the appalling and destructive behaviour by this individual that I saw while working for the organization, because it risked causing broader harm.

Now they no longer hold that position, I felt relieved of my obligation to stay quiet.

I also considered the fact that publishing such a critical post about an individual would cause others that I hold in high regard – yourself included – to think badly of me, and I weighed that up against my conscience, and ultimately decided to post it.

So, my apologies: it was something I felt I had to do, although I wish that wasn’t the case.