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All Animals Are Not Equal - A Political Outlook

POSTED ON July 2, 2024 •   POLITICS      BY Benedicta Bassey
Former US President, Donald Trump/ Photo credit: ClimateHome

The poor break the law while the rich bend it in their favour to move on;  depicting the phrase in George Orwell's book, titled 'Animal Farm' wherein the author stated 'all animals are equal, but some are more equal than others'.

It highlights the hypocritical and corruptiveness that arise from political corridor, especially those that claim to uphold equality. We know that we are non-egalitarian citizens in this world.

This statement indicates critique of how power can distort ideals. In theory, equality should mean that everyone is treated the same and has the same opportunities. 

However, in practice, those in positions of power often manipulate this ideal to maintain their own status and privilege. They might promote the idea of equality during campaigns to gain support but then act in ways that ensure they remain above others.

"No one is above the law" is a misconception perpetuated by the misinformed. Many individuals are "above the law." We have laws that elevate individuals above the law. 

Such laws include diplomatic immunity, sovereign immunity, civil service protections, congressional immunity against defamation, witness immunity, several sorts of privilege and so on. There are all mechanisms that place certain people "above the law." 

The idea that "some are above the law" has proved to be factual, particularly in high-profile situations involving political figures such as Donald Trump. 

Throughout Trump's administration and beyond, there have been disputes over his behaviour whether he had privileges that protected him from legal penalties that others may face.

Critics argued that Trump's activities, including the Capitol uprising probe and his financial dealings, exemplified how powerful people could avoid punishment through legal evasion or political influence.

This viewpoint undermines trust in the justice system's ability to treat all people fairly under the law.

On the other hand, supporters may argue that Trump's legal scrutiny has been too politicized, implying that he has received unparalleled scrutiny and legal difficulties in comparison to other presidents. They may say that inquiries and judicial proceedings against him reflect a political goal rather than objective legal criteria.

In either case, the Crown Can Do No Wrong. The political leaders in most parts of the world, most especially Nigeria, are largely considered to be above the law due to the principle of sovereign immunity, which means that they cannot be prosecuted or sued.

I see Trump still attend his court case. Kudos to the laws that subjected them to avoid contempt of court. Pas presidents and other highly placed persons in Africa commit contempt of court and nothing is done about it. That's by the way.

The crown can do no wrong and all animals are equal but some are more equal than others, is clearly seen in the US Supreme Court's hearing.  

Supreme Court said "presidents have ‘absolute’ immunity for clearly official acts but no immunity for unofficial acts". We have laws that make some people to be above the law.

However, regardless of political position; promoting equality under the law is critical to maintaining justice and public trust. Cases involving public figures should highlight the significance of clear, unbiased legal processes that hold all individuals accountable, regardless of status or power.

The term "no one is above the law" is still controversial, and cases involving personalities underscore ongoing issues about fairness, accountability, and the rule of law in modern democracies. 

Achieving justice necessitates strict adherence to legal principles that promote equality and maintain public trust in the judicial system. No one should be above the law. Immunity should not make any political leader a law breaker.

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