What does the rule of law imply?

The rule of law implies that everyone must follow the law, which ensures that no one is above the law, including government officials and private citizens alike. This principle is fundamental to maintaining order, fairness, and justice within a society. It establishes that laws are applied consistently and impartially, holding all members of society accountable to the same set of legal standards. This concept is crucial in upholding democratic values and protecting individual rights, as it promotes the idea that laws govern society rather than arbitrary decisions made by individuals.

The other options do not reflect the essence of the rule of law. For instance, the idea that only the government follows the law contradicts the principle of equal accountability, and suggesting that the law applies only to citizens excludes non-citizens who may also be subject to local jurisdiction. Likewise, the notion that judges can exempt some people from the law undermines the uniformity and fairness that the rule of law is intended to uphold.