What does the rule of law imply?

The rule of law is a fundamental principle that asserts that all individuals and institutions, including the government, are accountable under the law. It means that laws apply equally to everyone, and nobody is above the law, regardless of their position, wealth, or power. This ensures fairness, security, and justice in society by providing a consistent framework that governs relationships and interactions among individuals, organizations, and the state.

The option that states everyone must follow the law captures this essence, highlighting the necessity for all people, including officials and authorities, to adhere to legal statutes. This promotes equality and protects individuals from arbitrary governance and abuse of power.

In contrast, other options undermine this principle. For instance, the view that only the government must follow the law suggests a hierarchy where individuals are not held accountable, which contradicts equal application of justice. The notion that law is subject to interpretation can be true in certain contexts but does not speak specifically to the overarching principle of the rule of law. Finally, stating that only certain citizens are subject to the law directly contradicts the core concept of equality before the law.