SINCE elections are coming soon, most people are unaware of the Islamic guidance on elections, including Muslims. Some even think that they are not “Permitted” to vote. This is not true. In fact, Islamic teachings are very clear.Elections and appointments are a way to manage the administrative system of a country. It is essential to have elections in order to run the structure of the country in an orderly manner and it is very important to elect the right person to uphold the dues of the office. Indeed, the matter is so significant that the Holy Qur’an draws attention to it, detailing what kind of people should be chosen for office.
Allah Almighty says in The Holy Qur’an: “Verily, Allah commands you to make over the trusts to those entitled to them, and that, when you judge between men, you judge with justice. And surely excellent is that with which Allah admonishes you! Allah is All-Hearing, All-Seeing.” (Ch 4, Verse 59)
It also addresses the office holders admonishing them that mere holding of an office is not enough, the dues of the office need to be discharged and when these dues are not discharged, one incurs God’s displeasure. Holding a responsibility for country is a trust; for which one is accountable. Voting and appointing for an office in government is a trust of Allah; one is accountable for this. The first responsibility is a trust; therefore elect those who are the best for the office.
For the election of an office holder, vote should not be casted based on one’s relations, friendships or clannish preferences. Voters will be held answerable as to why did they not use their vote correctly, for National interest rather than personal interest. If one does not have sufficient information about those who are to be voted for, then one should pray to God that one is guided to vote for the person who is the best in God’s sight. God helps when a community of believers cast their votes after praying in this vein to elect office holders.
Elections are a process of recommendation; the final decision is made after counting of votes. The leadership position is based on majority of votes. Islam shuns nepotism; however, it is allowed to appoint a relative or a friend to a task based on merit.
Qualities of a leader:
Islam also shed light on a great leader. The founder of Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Hadhrat Mirza Ghulam (on whom be peace) has taught us that the rights of others should be awarded even if it means one has to endure hardship in the process. We see candidates make promises before elections. Allah says about promises that: “…for the covenant shall be questioned about.” (17:35). And signs of pious ones are: “…and those who fulfill their promise when they have made one…” (2:178) So a God-fearing leader will uphold all promises to the best of his abilities.
Then, we see that some leaders slander others and attack them. Regarding this Allah commands that: “…Do not slander your own people, nor taunt each other with nicknames…” (49:12). To treat everyone with respect is a great quality that office holders should have.
Another quality of National Office should be to spend the funds of the country with extreme care. Under no circumstances should there be wastage. Allah says: “…and squander not thy wealth extravagantly. Verily, the extravagant are brothers of satans, and Satan is ungrateful to his Lord.” (17:27-28). This is the correct way of fulfilling trust. At the same time God states that miserliness does not befit a believer. Elected officials should avoid wastage and be moderate in spending, but should not be miserly. One should spend wherever there is just requirement.
A special quality of office holders should be able to control their anger. It is stated: “…those who suppress anger…” (3:135).
Office holders should be mindful that the Qur’an states: “…speak to men kindly…” (2:84).
Office holders should treat their coworkers with kindness.
Be mindful of God’s commandment: “…Be always just, that is nearer to righteousness…” (5:9)
These are some of the qualities of a great leader mentioned here. This will help us to select the right candidate for future leadership. At the same time these are the guidelines for our leaders to follow, this is how our country will become a better and beautiful place. At the end I pray that may Allah guide our nation to elect worthy candidates and we progress in peace and harmony. Aamen.

MAQSOOD A. MANSOOR
Imam of Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at