How will poor laws harm the people in our country?
Answers
Every form of government — be it democratic or dictatorial — ostensibly promises rule of law. In reality and spirit, this is not always the case.
In democracies that are strong, rule of law is effective and consolidated, and leads a country to peaceful order and prosperity. The situation is reversed if the rule of law is absent.
In Pakistan’s case, rule of law has always remained a non-existing, de jure ‘reality’.
Rule of law and due process of law are two important terms. Both ensure proper functioning of the institutions of a state within their respective jurisdiction, create peace and prosperity, build society on sound structure and footing and confirm service delivery at the door steps of the subjects of a state etc. Both also protect the citizens from injustice and discrimination. The Constitution of Pakistan supports rule of law and due process of law, but unfortunately the country has achieved little success to reap fruits of these legal terms.
Rule of law may be defined as governance in accordance with law. The World Justice Project has explained that the rule of law is based on four universal principles. These include accountability, just laws, open government and accessible and impartial dispute resolution. Just laws mean the laws are clear, publicized, stable, and just; are applied evenly; and protect fundamental rights, including the security of persons and property and certain core human rights.
Due process of law may be defined to follow the course of action for performing an act in accordance with law. Example may be taken from the constitution of Pakistan. It provides procedure of performing business of each organ of the state. Following procedure provided in constitution would be the due process of law. It is administration of law according to accepted legal principles.