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NONTOBEKO AISHA MKHWANAZI reports on IPSA’s symposium emphasising the need to exercise one’s right to vote.
JUSTICE, good governance and service delivery are critical elements in which South Africans should highly consider as they head to the voting stations to cast their votes on today May 29, 2024.
This call was echoed during the International Peace College South Africa (IPSA) postgraduate Election Guideline Symposium on May, 26, 2024 in Lansdowne, Cape Town.
Under the theme, ‘Guidelines for the Muslim community and South African society, in general, on the upcoming elections, based on the principles of the Fiqh of Priorities and
Balances, the Fiqh of Minorities and Citizenship’ the event drew a diverse crowd as citizens gathered to find a way to contribute to a better South Africa for all who live in it. This was in accordance with the Quranic advice: ‘Allah does not change a people’s lot unless they change what is in their hearts.’ (Surah Ar-Ra’d, 13:11).
During the event, IPSA Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr Dawood Terblanche emphasised the importance of Muslims to cast their votes today.
‘It is crucial for Muslims to come out in their numbers to cast their votes today. By voting, we ensure that our voices are heard, and our values are represented in the governance of our country,’ said Dr Terblanche.
IPSA founding member and Contemporary Islamic Thought postgraduate studies lecturer, Shaikh Ighsaan Taliep highlighted that the aim of the event was to ensure voters make an informed decision.
He reiterated that voting is among the key mechanisms of holding the government accountable. Stating that while this accountability is paramount for the country, on the Day of Judgement citizens will be accountable to Allah for their participation in this process.
‘By drawing from the Fiqh of Priorities and Balances and the Fiqh of Minorities and Citizenship, the Muslim community and society at large can make ethical and informed decisions. Upholding justice, fostering civic engagement, and rejecting corruption will collectively contribute to a more equitable and prosperous future for all,’ said Shaikh Taliep, quoting from Surah Ma’idah: ‘O you who believe, be upright for God, and be bearers of witness with justice!’ (Quran 5:8)
As voters cast their votes today, the pervasive issue of corruption remains at the forefront of voters’ minds. This pivotal moment demands thoughtful consideration from all citizens, particularly the Muslim community, who are guided by the principles of the Quran and Sunnah. Rooted in these teachings, the Fiqh of Priorities and Balances, and the Fiqh of Minorities and Citizenship provide a comprehensive framework for ethical decision-making.
The Fiqh of Priorities and Balances is highly relevant for South Africans at this crucial stage of democracy as it emphasises prioritizing matters based on divine commandments and prophetic teachings.
‘These principles seek to harmonize legal principles by weighing benefits and avoiding harm and the Maqasid-al-Shariah, or higher objectives of Islamic law, underpins this approach, emphasizing the preservation of faith, life, intellect, lineage, and wealth,’ said IPSA BA Honours in Islamic Studies (BAHIS) student, Ismail Chogle.
In addition, the Fiqh of Minorities addresses the unique challenges faced by Muslim communities living as minorities, guiding them to remain faithful to Islamic teachings while respecting differences of opinion. The Fiqh of Citizenship outlines the rights, duties, and responsibilities of Muslims within modern nation-states, helping them navigate their roles as citizens committed to justice and ethical behaviour.
Political participation in Islam and democracy goes beyond mere voting and encompasses influencing the political landscape. The Maqasid perspective of voting emphasises the importance of political participation in advancing societal goals, including economic development and the preservation of Islamic identity.
Yet, voter apathy persists in South Africa, prompting a need for guidance rooted in Islamic principles.
According to IPSA BAHIS student, Muhammed Patel, citizen apathy is a result of numerous issues which includes frustration with socio-economic challenges, corruption, and a lack of satisfaction with political parties. These factors underscore the need for proactive measures to address apathy and promote civic engagement.
Islamic governance principles emphasise justice, accountability, and participation in decision-making processes. While Islamic sovereignty is universal, practical governance is exercised by the state, necessitating compatibility between Islamic values and political systems.
To address citizen apathy and promote sound governance, a multifaceted approach is needed. This includes educating communities on their responsibilities, holding politicians accountable, and advocating for ethical leadership and transparency.
Examining South Africa’s governance history reveals patterns of discrimination and challenges, particularly during apartheid. Despite progress, post-apartheid South Africa grapples with corruption and governance issues.
In analysing the importance of justice in South Africa, one can zoom in on the high level of corruption which then makes justice a key solution to the development of the country.
Corruption in South Africa is defined as crimes committed against citizens, and robbing citizens of resources meant to improve their lives.
Notable cases include the Transnet corruption scandal, where former executives and company representatives faced charges related to procurement fraud, and the infamous state capture involving former President Jacob Zuma and the Gupta brothers. These cases exemplify how corruption leads to political decay, ethical misconduct, and widespread socio-economic harm.
Justice in Islam encompasses many dimensions, including justice towards oneself, others, and society. It is rooted in the concepts of adl (fairness) and qist (equity).
During the event, IPSA BAHIS student, Muhammed Randeree noted that Al-Raghib al-Isfahani, a classical scholar, emphasised the spiritual and moral connotations of justice, which align with contemporary juridical and political understandings.
The Quran and Sunnah provide numerous references to justice, such as the hadith narrated by Abu Saeed al-Khudree: ‘Whosoever of you sees an evil, let him change it with his hand; and if he is not able to do so, then [let him change it] with his tongue; and if he is not able to do so, then with his heart — and that is the weakest of faith’ [Muslim].
In addition, South Africa faces significant service delivery challenges, including socio-economic inequality, corruption, political instability, and inadequate infrastructure.
IPSA Masters in Applied Islamic Thought student, Shamila Abrahams, said addressing these issues requires a focus on justice, equitable distribution of resources and the application of social justice as defined by Islam.
‘Social justice in Islam is deeply rooted in the concept of fairness and equity,’ said IPSA BAHIS student, Wajeeda Blommetjie.
The Quran commands justice and fair dealing (Surah An Nahl, 16:90), and the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) emphasised avoiding injustice in this Hadith Qudsi: ‘O My slaves, I have forbidden injustice for Myself and forbade it also for you. So, avoid being unjust to one another’ [Sahih Muslim].
Prominent scholars like Tariq Ramadan, Taha Jabir Al Alwani, and Yusuf Qaradawi have emphasised the importance of balancing integration, identity, and contribution to society. This involves active participation in public and civic life, dialogue, and a strong emphasis on community engagements for the betterment of society.
Among some of the general guidelines discussed during the event were the following:
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- Investigate party manifestos and track records: Evaluate the integrity and performance of political parties.
- Evaluate commitment to anti-corruption: Support candidates with a proven commitment to fighting corruption.
- Consider support for social justice initiatives: Prioritise candidates who advocate for social justice and equity.
- Engagement and responsiveness: Choose leaders who are responsive to the needs of their constituents.
- Stance on partnerships and collaborations: Support parties that promote collaboration and partnership with various stakeholders.
- Analyse the party’s comprehensive development vision: Consider long-term plans for national development.
Specific guidelines for Muslim voters
- Alignment with Islamic values and principles: Support candidates who reflect Islamic ethics.
- Commitment to fighting corruption: Prioritise leaders committed to ethical governance.
- Support for social justice activism: Advocate for candidates who promote social justice and equity.
- Services to Muslim communities: Ensure that candidates address the needs of Muslim communities.
- Participation and representation: Support candidates who represent and advocate for Muslim interests.
- Wide-ranging development vision: Evaluate candidates’ plans for holistic development.
For further guidelines, visit the IPSA website : www.ipsa-edu.org or email : info@ipsa-edu.org.
