Cant say I disagree with your points, but the obligation to disclose a conflict is not on Aiu, but on the person in the position of being the decision maker.  Aiu is merely an applicant.  Sword as the chair should have disclosed his relationship with Aiu from day one when Aiu applied because he is in a position of authority to select the next chief. I give credit to Aiu but even his disclosure came late in the game.  The whole process is tainted.