Why is it necessary to uphold the principle of the Rule of Law in a state?

Answer Details

Why it is necessary to uphold the principle of the Rule of Law in a state

The rule of law means the supremacy of the law over all persons, so that everybody, whether ruler or ruled, is equal before and subject to the same law. It is necessary to uphold it for the following reasons:

1. It guarantees equality before the law: Upholding it ensures that all citizens, regardless of status, wealth or office, are treated equally and are subject to the same laws and courts.
2. It protects the fundamental rights of citizens: The rule of law safeguards the liberty, property and other basic rights of the individual against arbitrary interference by the government or by fellow citizens.
3. It checks dictatorship and abuse of power: By binding rulers to the law, it prevents the arbitrary and tyrannical use of power and compels the government to act only within the limits set by law.
4. It ensures fair hearing and justice: It guarantees that no person is punished except for a breach of law proved before an ordinary court, and that everyone is presumed innocent until proven guilty and given a fair trial.
5. It promotes peace, order and stability: Where the law is supreme and impartially enforced, citizens have confidence in the system, disputes are settled lawfully, and orderly and stable government is assured.
6. It encourages good governance and accountability: Leaders are made accountable for their actions and are compelled to govern justly, which strengthens public confidence and attracts investment and development.