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Why is the Rule of Law essential for protecting democracy?
Show Answer
In short:
It keeps power inside limits between elections.
- It ensures equality before the law and equal protection of the law.
- It establishes that no one is above the law, including those in power.
- Disputes are settled in a court of law through procedures established by law, not by force or personal influence.
- It prevents the misuse of power by those who hold it.
- No citizen can be punished without following the procedure established by law.
- Everyone is given a fair opportunity to defend their rights against arbitrary action.
- It promotes justice, accountability and trust in the democratic system.
Explanation
- Elections alone do not protect anyone, because a government could win a vote and then act as it liked.
- The Rule of Law is what keeps power inside limits between elections.
Revision: Why the Rule of Law protects democracy
Equality before law
and equal protection
No one above the law
including those in power
Disputes to a court
not to force
↓
Justice, accountability and trust - power kept inside limits between elections
