All praises are due to Allah (SWT), the Beneficent and the Merciful. May His peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad (saw), his companions and those who followed his footsteps till the Day of Judgement.
Today, we are discussing the power of political engagement in diverse societies and why voting is imperative to us especially as Muslims. As of today, we have a few days until the governorship elections in Edo State. So, it is important to address the reasons we should not stay aloof from politics.
We have heard people say that politics is not Islamic. They discourage others from being involved. Let me remind us that the type of society we find ourselves in is not the type we can stay aloof from politics. I say so because, when those in leadership come with bad governance, the resultant effect does not discriminate whether you are Muslims or not, whether you are young or old, whether you are men or women.
Allah says in the Qur’an, “Fear the evil that doesn’t only affect the doer but everyone, when it comes”. In a narration, Prophet Muhammad (saw) has taught us how to correct wrong doings in our homes, society or community. We are told to correct it with our hands, speak against it or hate it, if we are not capable of adopting the first two methods. Today, in applying those methods, we are not supposed to condemn politics or democracy in totality. What we can do is to actively correct the wrong doings we have found in it.
For example, where is it allowed to practice same sex marriage, abortion, and many others? But how can you agitate for correction when you stay aloof?
In a narration, prophet Muhammad (saw) said, Allah has made some matters compulsory for us; we must ensure we comply. He has set boundaries for us that we must not cross. He has overlooked some matters not out of forgetfulness but out of mercy, such matters we must not investigate them.
Leadership selection process in Islam
It is important to note that Islam doesn’t set boundaries as it concerns politics. In the light of that, some have argued that it is part of the matters Allah has overlooked out of His mercy. But we can learn from the methods of leadership selection used by the companions of the Prophet Muhammad (saw) and those who came after them. They used three different methods in choosing their leaders:
The first was the Electoral College. This involves choosing a trusted few persons to suggest the one they feel would make a good leader. This was the method through which Abubakri Siddiq came into power after the demise of Prophet Muhammad (saw). Usman Ibn Afan and Ali Ibn Abutolib also came through this method.
The second method that was used was that the serving leader can say to the people after he must have single handedly consulted with elders, who he wants to succeed him. This was how Umar Ibn Khatab succeeded Abubakri As-Siddiq.
The third method is an announcement by the leader, telling the public who will succeed him. Examples are Yazid Ibn Muawiya and other leaders that came after him.
It is important to note that politics, often viewed as a contentious arena, can be a potent force for fostering peaceful coexistence in diverse societies. By providing a platform for individuals and groups to negotiate, compromise, and find common ground, political mechanisms can help address societal challenges while respecting and valuing religious differences.
The role of Muslim leaders in promoting unity
Muslim leaders, both religious and political, have a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in promoting peaceful coexistence. By advocating for tolerance, understanding, and cooperation, they can inspire their communities to engage constructively in political processes.
As Muslims, we must be actively involved in politics. This is because those who have political power have the power to destroy or make the society. They have the power to destroy religion, education, economy, health, traditional institutions and many more. Imagine when we have a leader who does not understand the need for peaceful coexistence.
In Nigeria today, many wrong people have been entrusted with power. This is the reason we generally suffer serious challenges in our country. It has become obvious that it is not a matter of who is the most religious or who is the most educated. What is important is to search for leaders who will be merciful. Therefore, it is important to investigate those aspiring to be our leaders. Check their past records and then, put our trust in Allah.
The challenges of political polarization
While politics can be a powerful tool for promoting peaceful coexistence, it can also be a source of division and conflict. Addressing the challenges of political polarization requires a commitment to open dialogue, compromise, and a shared vision for a better future.
As Muslims living in the same society with non-Muslims, we must collaborate in resolving matters of common interest.
In conclusion, let us know that the punishment for the right people who refused to rule is that they suffer the rule of the wrong people.
Therefore, we must be actively involved in politics, collaborating with other good people in the society to make the society a better place for all through seeking political power.
We pray to Allah to grant us the best in this world and in the Hereafter. Assist us with good leaders who will be merciful to us.
Mallam Harun Umar writes from Afemai Mosque Benin City.
