Dear Editor,

The rule of law (from the World Justice Project) is the underlying framework of rules and rights that make prosperous and fair societies possible.

The rule of law is a system in which no one, including Government, is above the law; where laws protect fundamental rights; and where justice is accessible to all.

Public enforcement of Government regulations is pervasive in modern societies as a method to induce conduct. A critical feature of the rule of law is that such rules are upheld and properly enforced by authorities, particularly because public enforcement might raise the scope for negligence and abuse by individuals pursuing their own interest.

Too often have we seen the authorities in Jamaica try to enforce the rule of law, only to retreat and give in to mob rule. The Transport Authority states that Coaster buses are lawfully entitled to carry only 22 passengers. That is the rule of law, and in a society governed by the rule of law, the Government and its officials and agents are subject to and held accountable under the law.

Why then have the Government and its officials retreated and are making a mockery of the law by allowing the operators of these buses to continue breaking the law? Are we a society that will continue to give a “blye” to law-breakers?

On many occasions I have seen the Transport Authority and the police retreat in the face of mob rule. Whether it be the overloading of buses or the loud playing of music, the operators always win.

The lawless ones in our society know that all they have to do is launch an unlawful protest and hope that the Government and their agents will retreat. Protecting human security, mainly assuring the security of persons and property, is a fundamental function of the State. Are the authorities abdicating their duties in the face of the mobs? What are the views of the commissioner of police in this episode?

When will we begin to see strict enforcement of the rules of law in Jamaica? We have so many laws that are not being enforced effectively. The Noise Abatement Act, the Anti-litter Act and the no-vending laws are just a few that come readily to mind.

The operators of public transport have been getting away with a lot over the years. Will they be allowed to get away with this one, too? Who knows, maybe they just will.

Neville Beckford

beckkid@hotmail.com