(a) What are rights? (b) Highlight four limitations on the rights of a citizen

Answer Details

(a) Meaning of rights

Rights are the legitimate claims, freedoms and privileges which a citizen is entitled to enjoy within a state, and which are recognised and protected by law. They are the entitlements that enable an individual to develop his personality and participate fully in the political, social and economic life of the community. Examples include the right to life, freedom of speech, freedom of movement and the right to vote and be voted for.

(b) Four limitations on the rights of a citizen

1. The rights of others: A citizen's rights end where the rights of other citizens begin; one may not exercise a right in a way that injures or infringes the equal rights of fellow citizens.
2. Public safety, order and morality: Rights may be curtailed in the interest of public peace, health, safety and decency, for example restrictions on unlawful assembly or obscene publications.
3. State security and emergency: During war, insurrection or a declared state of emergency, government may lawfully suspend or restrict certain rights such as freedom of movement in order to protect the state.
4. Court sentence or lawful detention: A person convicted by a competent court or lawfully detained loses certain rights, such as personal liberty and freedom of movement, for the duration of the sentence.

Other valid limitations include defamation and contempt of court laws, and laws protecting the reputation and rights of others.