Accountability for former manager's wrongdoing

[sorted]

Hi all, newbie here. Just seeking a little advice. I've been with my current employers for almost 20 years - they're a large organisation and in a very target driven and pressurised industry. I'm in a middle management role and have had a line manager for the last 8 years who has been poor to say the least. No direction, cutting corners where possible, absolutely no people management. He is a good talker and had been able to cover his tracks for all those years. He left about 2 months ago and it has since come to light exactly how little he did - quite frankly he left our dept in an absolute mess. Together with 3 other colleagues, I have been trying to pick up the pieces and get things back in order. From admin to staff morale, poor sales figures - it's all been a challenge. I had applied for his job as I know that I'm capable and competent. My 3 colleagues however did not. I got through the first stage interview - all good. In the interim however, the company have decided to do a fact find on me - questioning me about issues which had come to light (all of which were his remit). They are still deliberating - 2 weeks later on what the outcome should be. Consequently I have been told that my application for the role is no longer being considered due to this ongoing investigation.
I'd really appreciate some advice - can they hold me responsible for my former manager's actions? Also - since I have not been seconded into his role in any formal or informal way, surely I should not be being singled out like this? My 3 colleagues are at the same level as me - the only difference is they have not applied for the promotion. (I was the only one brought to a fact find meeting).
The company has had a history of driving people out - bullying is rife and there is a clique amongst the higher levels of management in particular.
I would really appreciate it if any of you could give me a little insight or advice on what I should do...
Thanks in advance,

[teaboy2]

Re: Accountability for former manager's wrongdoing

No your not accountable for it, nor should it have effected your application - However i think the management are worried as to why the issues were not raised before hand and may feel its time to have fresh outside blood in to repair the damage the previous manager had done. My advise would be to write an informal letter pointing out your concerns, how you feel about it and questioning their actions and why your application is being treated unfairly in light of the previous managers failings, whilst making it clear if their explanation is not satisfactory then you you will be issuing a formal grievance!