Law and Principles: The Foundation of Order, Not Tools of Self-interest

By Samuel Sulaiman Bah

In a world constantly challenged by instability, division, and personal gain, the role and principles of Law and Order cannot be overstated. Principles are not just arbitrary rules or outdated norms, they are the framework that creates balance, guides behavior, and maintains societal order. When upheld, they ensure fairness and accountability, serving as a moral compass that steers people toward justice and collective good rather than selfish motives. The absence of principles leads to chaos, and the misuse of them for individual gain only deepens distrust in systems that are meant to protect and empower all.

It’s important to recognize that principles were never designed for selective benefit. They are not to be bent to suit personal convenience or power plays. Once principles are compromised to serve an individual or a particular group, they lose their integrity and the foundation of equity begins to crack. Societies, organizations, and even personal relationships thrive when principles are consistently applied regardless of status, wealth, or influence. True leadership and growth lie in respecting these standards, even when it's uncomfortable or inconvenient.

Many of the issues we face today are corruption, inequality, manipulation which stems from the failure to adhere to principled governance and action. In politics, when laws are manipulated for personal or party gain, the public suffers. In workplaces, when fairness is sacrificed for favoritism, morale declines. In communities, when people act outside of shared values, conflict arises. Therefore, principles are essential not only in written laws or corporate codes but also in the unwritten conduct of our daily lives.

For young leaders, professionals, and citizens alike, this is a reminder to commit to principle-led living. Whether in leadership roles or everyday interactions, let integrity, fairness, and truth be your anchor. Avoid being swayed by temporary rewards or peer pressure that urges you to act against what you know is right. Remember, principles are often tested in private before they are revealed in public.

In conclusion, principles exist not to limit us, but to liberate us from the disorder that unchecked self-interest brings. When rightly followed, they unite rather than divide, protect rather than oppress, and elevate rather than destroy. A principled life may not always be the easiest, but it is always the most honourable. Let’s choose order over chaos, because that’s what principles were meant for.