Rule of Law: Justice and Equality
Ananya Pande, Grade 10

Rule of law, rather than rule by law, is an idea that governs democracy. The idea that those at every tier of the hierarchy are subject to the same laws and consequences plays a key role in establishing fundamental, systemic equality. It highlights that regardless of position and power, to be a citizen of a democratic nation is to abide by the rules and regulations of said nation. That regardless of status or rank, all are equal in courts of justice.
Yet, in the modern day, events shake the foundations of rule of law across countries. Perhaps the most recent example is that of United States President, Donald Trump. In May 2024, before reelection, President Trump was officially convicted of 34 felony counts of falsifying business records by a New York jury. Over the course of his presidential campaign, his legal team repeatedly aimed to delay sentencing, waiting until the election: that now-President Trump ultimately won.
The sentencing, come January 10th, was an unconditional discharge. This meant effectively no repercussions for the President, though a guilty conviction would remain on his record. This decision was received in a range of ways. Supporters, especially far right individuals, often held the belief that the conviction alone was too much, and that President Trump was innocent and should have been treated as such. Members of the democratic party questioned the outcome and legitimacy of the decision with context to his presidency and reelection, raising the question: would any other citizen have received the same sentencing for the same crimes? Or, did the title of ‘president’ influence the outlook of justice?
It is imperative we recognize that deciding who is ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ in this situation is a near impossible pursuit. Rather, the focus goes towards the political question raised: how does ‘justice’ of those in power influence public perception of equality?
When we evaluate the question of democratic equality and justice, we must allow ourselves to focus purely on the facts. We must allow ourselves to recognize the arguments both for and against situations like these: that ask us to question and reconsider their truth. Justice stems from truth and impartiality: traits which must not only be held by the jury, but by us onlookers, in the courts of law.