Karma and Justice

While presenting a prosecution witness in a criminal case, I was struck by the witness’ answer when asked why she decided to testify (she first saw the victim when the incident happened; the victim died). Without batting an eyelash, she answered that if ever she becomes a victim, she would also want others to testify for her.

This echoes the Golden Rule. “Do unto others as you have them do unto you“. Stated the other way, it goes: “What you do not want others to do to you, do not do to others” (Confucius). Yet, it’s better said than done. It’s never easy to testify in a criminal case, especially if someone already died.

Bottomline, justice should prevail. I was about to use the word “shall”, but thought otherwise because it applies only to an ideal world. In this imperfect world of ours, justice may come after one’s death.

It may not even come at all.

• The Impeachment: Should Chief Justice Renato Corona Testify in his Defense?
• On Plan to Impeach Chief Justice Puno: Keep Off Judiciary
• Let the Next President Appoint the Next Chief Justice
• Choosing the next Chief Justice: Breaking away from Tradition