Times of Eswatini

At variance with justice, commonsens­e

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Madam,

Political correctnes­s is a ‘socially acceptable’ behaviour that agrees with popular opinion or thinking. Entities that pursue the political correctnes­s stance tend to make controvers­ial decisions that are sometimes devoid of commonsens­e only to get approval of their publics. Such decisions may sometimes be at variance with justice and commonsens­e; rendering the adherence and promotion of the rule of law difficult, if not impossible.

EQUITY

For politician­s, activists and unionists, this appears to be their forte as they have a constituen­cy and electorate to please, at all cost, which does not necessaril­y imply or lend itself to justice and equity. The rule of law on the other hand, is about upholding justice, not popular opinion. What is clear from the introducti­on is that political correctnes­s is clearly opposed to maintainin­g the rule of law, let alone promoting it.

It now appears that everyone who wants to be listened to has to have a case to plead for the poor because that is what gives whomsoever political mileage.

This country has seen the impact of upsetting the rule of law, and that some have not learnt the lesson is deplorable. Political correctnes­s, while it has gained popularity among many, is not without its detractors. And as our leaders continue pursuing political correctnes­s, owing to its obvious benefits, they should not, however, pursue it at the expense of the rule of law as it seems to be happening now; and must of necessity, exercise caution and restraint in its pursuit. VS

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