Introduction
Islamic governance is a comprehensive system designed to ensure justice and order in all aspects of society. At its core, this system is uniquely structured around the principle of accountability, a concept profoundly encapsulated in the term Hisbah. Far from being a mere administrative or legal tool, this divine injunction serves as a comprehensive framework for maintaining moral, social, and political order. It transcends the limitations of modern, secular oversight by rooting its authority in a profound sense of ultimate responsibility to Allah (SWT). This article first deconstructs the theoretical underpinnings of Hisbah by examining its foundational principles as meticulously outlined in the Holy Quran and the practical examples set forth in the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet (PBUH). It then proceeds to analyze how these ideals were translated into a concrete administrative reality, exploring the historical and institutional practices of the Prophet (PBUH)'s administration and the subsequent Pious Caliphate (RA). The discussion finally culminates in a critical analysis of how these timeless principles can be adapted and applied to address the deep-seated challenges of governance, transparency, and public accountability that face a modern, Muslim-majority state like Pakistan today.
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Understanding Accountability in an Islamic Perspective
The concept of accountability, deeply embedded in the Islamic faith, forms the bedrock of its social, political, and economic systems. Unlike a purely secular concept that confines accountability to human institutions and laws, Islam presents a multi-layered framework. At its core is the belief in ultimate accountability to Allah (SWT), which serves as the supreme check on all human actions, both in public and private life. This divine command permeates every aspect of governance, from the head of state to the common citizen.
Definition and Significance of Hisbah and Accountability
The term hisbah stands as the central pillar of the Islamic system of accountability, representing a fundamental tenet of Islamic jurisprudence and governance. Etymologically rooted in the word ihtisab, which means “to calculate” or “to reckon,” it implies a constant vigilance through self-assessment and public oversight. In its broader sense, it encompasses the act of upholding the rights of both Allah (SWT) and His creations. Juridically, it refers to the duty of “enjoining good and forbidding evil,” a collective responsibility placed upon every member of the community and the state to maintain social and moral order. Accountability in this framework is not confined to legal or financial audits; it represents a holistic moral and ethical imperative that governs all aspects of life, with the ultimate reckoning residing with Allah (SWT) on the Day of Judgment. This spiritual dimension imbues the system with a profound and intrinsic motivational force that external laws alone cannot replicate, rendering it a foundational element for the establishment of a just and righteous society.
The Qur’anic and Prophetic Basis for Public and Private Morality
Islamic accountability is founded upon the principle that the actions of a Muslim, whether public or private, are never beyond divine scrutiny. The Holy Qur’an and the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) provide a cohesive framework that inextricably links individual piety with public duty. The Qur’an repeatedly commands believers to uphold justice and to faithfully execute their trusteeship (Amanah), while the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) provided practical examples and teachings on leadership, honesty, and transparency. This framework establishes that there is no formal separation between religious morals and the ethics of governance. Indeed, the Qur'an highlights that true moral integrity is an internal state, a condition of the heart, as revealed in the verse: “Have they not traveled through the land, and have they hearts by which to reason and ears by which to hear? For indeed, it is not eyes that are blinded, but blinded are the hearts which are in the breasts.” (Surah Al−Hajj, 22:46). In the Islamic worldview, private conduct is a direct reflection of one's public responsibility, and vice versa. The integrity of an administrator in financial matters, the impartiality of a judge in the courtroom, and the sincerity of a leader in their duties are all directly correlated with their faith and their profound fear of Allah (SWT). This integrated approach ensures that accountability is not merely an external obligation but an internal, self-regulating mechanism that permeates the conscience of the believer.
The Distinction Between Hisbah and Modern Accountability
While contemporary accountability systems primarily concentrate on legal, financial, and procedural checks, hisbah encompasses these elements while also extending to the moral and ethical dimensions of public life. Modern systems are often reactive, focusing on the punishment of wrongdoing after it has transpired. For example, a financial audit may uncover fraud after the fact, leading to legal prosecution. Hisbah, in contrast, is both proactive and preventative, aiming to preserve public order and morality before transgressions occur. The most significant distinction lies in the source of authority: modern accountability is rooted in state law, whereas hisbah is a divine command. This divine origin renders hisbah a more comprehensive and deeply ingrained ethical system, as it appeals to a believer’s conscience and their belief in a higher purpose beyond worldly recognition or punishment. While secular mechanisms can potentially be circumvented or manipulated, the spiritual gravity of hisbah ensures a constant, internal check on an individual's conduct.
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Principles of Accountability from the Holy Qur’an
With a foundational understanding of the concept of accountability in Islam, we can now turn to the specific principles outlined in the Holy Qur’an. These divine injunctions form the bedrock upon which the entire system of Islamic governance is built, guiding both the ruler and the ruled in their respective duties.
The Concept of Amanah (Trusteeship)
In Islamic governance, public office is not an entitlement but a sacred trust. This concept of Amanah forms the very foundation of all responsibilities, both personal and public, and requires those in power to act with integrity and diligence. The Holy Qur’an states in Surah Al-Ahzab, "Indeed, We offered the Trust to the heavens and the earth and the mountains, but they declined to bear it and feared it; but man undertook to bear it" (33:72). This verse establishes that humanity has willingly accepted a great responsibility. Furthermore, a Hadith in Sunan Abu Dawood (2928) states, "The leader is a shepherd and is responsible for his flock." The Qur'anic verse establishes the divine trust, while the Hadith applies it directly to leadership, making it a solemn duty for which a person is held accountable. This profound understanding of Amanah places a heavy moral and spiritual burden on those entrusted with power, urging them to fulfill their duties to the best of their ability.
The Command for 'Adl (Justice) and Equity
The principle of Amanah is inextricably linked with the pursuit of justice, as a trustee must act with fairness to be true to their charge. The Holy Qur'an mandates Adl (justice) as an absolute and non-negotiable duty. It demands that justice be upheld without any bias, favoritism, or personal interest, making it the most critical principle of governance. In Surah An-Nisa (4:135), Allah commands believers, "O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives." This powerful directive elevates the pursuit of justice to a sacred duty, commanding believers to be firm and impartial witnesses for God, regardless of the personal cost. A similar injunction is found in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:8), "O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm for Allah as witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness." These verses establish that justice is not only the foundation of a righteous society but also an act of worship.
The Injunction of Al-Amr bi al-Maʿrūf wa al-Nahy ʿan al-Munkar (Enjoining Good and Forbidding Evil)
Beyond individual acts of justice, the Qur'an also calls for a collective responsibility to uphold a moral and ethical social order. The concept of Al-Amr bi al-Maʿrūf wa al-Nahy ʿan al-Munkar (enjoining good and forbidding evil) is central to Hisbah and is a cornerstone of public accountability. It provides a religious and moral basis for citizens to actively participate in promoting a just social order, transforming passive citizenry into an active, self-correcting force. The Qur'an states in Surah Ali ‘Imran (3:104), "And let there be arising from you a nation inviting to all that is good, enjoining what is right and forbidding what is wrong, and those will be the successful." This injunction commands the formation of a community dedicated to this purpose, giving a religious basis for proactive civic engagement and holding leaders accountable. This collective duty ensures that the government and society remain on a righteous path, providing a powerful and non-violent check on corruption and injustice.
The Importance of Shura (Consultation)
The collective duty to maintain justice is best exercised in a system that encourages participation and shared decision-making, which is where the principle of consultation becomes vital. Shura (consultation) is a vital Qur'anic principle for participatory governance. It ensures that decisions are not autocratic but are based on the collective wisdom of the community or its representatives. In Surah Ash-Shura (42:38), the Qur'an praises believers, saying, "who conduct their affairs by mutual consultation." This principle institutionalizes a participatory form of governance where rulers are encouraged to seek the counsel of others. Furthermore, in Surah Ali 'Imran (3:159), Allah (SWT) commands the Holy Prophet (PBUH), "and consult them in the matter." This divine command to the Prophet, despite his divine guidance, highlights the immense importance of Shura as a mechanism for checks and balances. This practice of consultation prevents authoritarianism and promotes shared responsibility, ensuring that decisions are well-informed and have the support of the community.
Universal Accountability to Allah (SWT)
Ultimately, all of these principles converge on the understanding that every human action is subject to a final and unwavering review. Above all, the Qur'an reinforces the ultimate accountability of all human beings to Allah (SWT). This divine accountability serves as a powerful moral compass, encouraging officials to act with integrity and justice, even when human oversight is absent. In Surah Al-Zalzalah (99:7-8), it states, "So whoever does an atom's weight of good will see it, and whoever does an atom's weight of evil will see it." This powerful verse establishes a profound sense of responsibility for every action, no matter how small. This constant reminder that actions have eternal consequences is the ultimate safeguard against corruption and abuse of power.
Principles of Accountability from the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet (PBUH)
The principles of accountability found in the Qur'an were not left as abstract ideas. They were practically and perfectly demonstrated in the life and teachings of the Holy Prophet (PBUH). This section explores how his words and actions further elaborated on and institutionalized the concept of public and private responsibility.
The Role of the Prophet (PBUH) as a Role Model
The Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) serves as the ultimate role model for ethical leadership and accountability. His life was a living testament to the principles he preached, embodying the perfect application of Qur'anic guidance in governance. A key tenet of his leadership was humility and accessibility, as highlighted by his famous statement in Sahih Muslim (1841), "The leader is a shield; you fight behind him and are protected by him." This Hadith portrays the leader as a protector and guardian of the people, an ideal he personified by being accessible to everyone, from the most powerful to the most vulnerable. His conduct, as recorded in the Sunnah, provides practical examples of how to implement the Qur'anic principles of governance with compassion and integrity.
The Prophet's Teachings on Leadership and Justice
The Prophet's example went beyond his personal conduct. The Prophet's teachings are replete with warnings about the responsibilities of leadership and the importance of justice. He emphasized that the leader is a shepherd who is responsible for his flock, a metaphor that stresses the duty of care and protection. In a Hadith recorded in Sahih al-Bukhari (7150), he declared, "Any ruler who is in charge of people and dies while he is deceiving them, will be forbidden to enter Paradise." This powerful warning links a leader's eternal destiny directly to their conduct in office. His words consistently linked leadership to service and justice, not to power or privilege, thereby setting a precedent for all future generations of rulers and public officials.
The Community's Right to Question Rulers
The emphasis on the leader's duty was complemented by a parallel empowerment of the community to question and challenge their leaders, ensuring a vibrant system of checks and balances. The Sunnah establishes the community's right and even duty to question its leaders, which is a crucial aspect of active accountability. The Prophet (PBUH) encouraged open dialogue and constructive criticism, empowering the public to speak out against injustice. A well-known Hadith in Sunan Abu Dawood (4344) states, "The best form of Jihad is a word of truth spoken to a tyrant ruler." This teaching elevates the act of holding a leader accountable to the highest level of spiritual struggle. This empowerment fosters a culture of active civic engagement, ensuring that the government remains responsive to the needs of the people and that arbitrary power is held in check.
Warnings Against Corruption and Dishonesty
To maintain the integrity of governance, the Prophet (PBUH) also issued severe warnings against corruption and dishonesty in public office. He condemned the misuse of public funds and favoritism, describing them as actions that lead to the downfall of nations. In a significant incident recorded in Sahih al-Bukhari (7174), the Prophet (PBUH) rebuked an official who had collected Zakat and accepted a gift, asking him, "Why didn't you stay in the house of your father and mother to see if you would be given gifts or not?" This powerful statement established a clear precedent against public officials benefiting from their position for personal gain. He also stressed the importance of merit-based appointments, advising that offices should be given to those who are most trustworthy and competent.
The Inseparable Link Between Accountability and Piety
These warnings were part of a broader philosophy that saw leadership as an expression of inner moral and spiritual strength. The Prophet's teachings consistently connect accountability with personal piety, emphasizing that a leader's character is the ultimate safeguard against abuse of power. He taught that a leader will be questioned about his work and that the best leaders are those who fear Allah (SWT) and are righteous. The Hadith from Sunan Abu Dawood (2928) mentions, "Any man in charge of a flock who does not act as he should for its welfare will not enter Paradise." This link implies that an official's personal morality and fear of God are the most effective safeguards against corruption and abuse of power, making piety an essential prerequisite for public office.
Historical and Institutional Practices of the Holy Prophet (PBUH)
The theoretical principles of accountability and Hisbah were not just abstract concepts; they were fully institutionalized during the Prophet's lifetime. This section examines the specific, practical steps he took to establish a governance system based on fairness, transparency, and public welfare.
The Prophet's Market Inspections and Fair Dealings
The Prophet (PBUH) was a proactive regulator of public life and commerce, personally demonstrating the Hisbah principle of market oversight. He personally conducted market inspections to ensure that merchants were honest, that goods were not defective, and that prices were fair. A famous Hadith in Sahih Muslim (102) describes an incident where he discovered a seller had hidden wet wheat under dry wheat, leading the Prophet to declare, "Whoever cheats is not of us." This act set a powerful precedent for active governance that serves the public interest. He established a clear set of ethical standards for economic activity, making sure that exploitation and fraud were not tolerated.
Establishing an Independent Judiciary
To ensure that justice was not only served but seen to be served, the Prophet (PBUH) also created an independent body to handle legal disputes fairly. During his time, the Prophet (PBUH) set the foundations for an independent judiciary, a key component of an accountable state. He appointed judges, such as Hazrat Ali (RA) and Hazrat Abu Musa al-Ashari (RA), and provided them with clear instructions on how to dispense justice impartially. The instructions given to Hazrat Ali (RA) from the Prophet (PBUH) emphasized treating all litigants equally, stating, "When two people come to you, do not decide in favor of one without hearing what the other has to say." (Tirmidhi 1331) This separation of powers, where the judiciary was free from the direct influence of the executive, was a revolutionary concept that guaranteed justice for all, regardless of their social standing.
Public Declaration of Accountability
The commitment to justice was further demonstrated by the Prophet‘s (PBUH) public and personal willingness to be held to account by the community he led. The Prophet (PBUH) was a firm believer in public accountability and demonstrated this through his public declarations. In a notable instance during his final sermon, Hajjatul Wada, he addressed the crowd and asked them if he had wronged anyone, publicly inviting any person to claim any right they had over him so that he could settle it. A Hadith in Sunan Abu Dawood (1905) quotes him saying, "Whoever among you has a right over me, let him stand up and take it." This public declaration of accountability stands as a monumental example of a leader who was not only accountable to his people but who actively sought out ways to be held to account.
The Constitution of Medina and Social Contracts
The Prophet's model of governance also extended to forming a comprehensive social contract that enshrined rights and responsibilities for all members of the society. The Constitution of Medina, a social contract established by the Prophet (PBUH), is a prime example of institutionalizing accountability. This document established a framework for social and political life among diverse communities, ensuring the protection of rights for all citizens, including non-Muslims. It created a system where all parties were bound by a shared commitment to justice and mutual respect, thereby ensuring a form of collective accountability. The Constitution, as a historical document, guaranteed the freedom of religion and property for the Jewish tribes, and established a framework for resolving disputes among all signatories, showcasing a model of inclusive and accountable governance.
Enforcing Justice without Discrimination
The Prophet (PBUH) enforced justice without any form of discrimination, cementing the principle of equality before the law. In the famous incident where a noble woman was found guilty of theft, he refused to grant a plea for clemency, declaring as quoted in a Hadith in Sahih al-Bukhari (67887), "By Allah, if Fatimah, the daughter of Muhammad, were to steal, I would cut off her hand." This powerful statement demonstrated that the law was to be applied equally to everyone, regardless of their social status or lineage. This act cemented the principle of justice for all and remains a powerful lesson in non-discriminatory governance.
Historical and Institutional Practices of the Pious Caliphs
The death of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) did not mark the end of these principles; rather, they were vigorously continued and further institutionalized by the Pious Caliphs. This section explores how each of the first four caliphs cemented the legacy of accountability, setting a standard for all future Islamic leaders.
Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA): The First Caliph's Address
Following the Prophet's death, Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA) set the tone for all future Islamic leaders in his inaugural address. He declared, “Obey me as long as I obey Allah and His Messenger. If I disobey them, then you have no obligation to obey me.” This bold statement, a pivotal moment in Islamic history, institutionalized the public's right to question and even resist their leader if he deviated from divine law. This established a foundation for conditional obedience, which is a critical aspect of Islamic governance. His address highlighted that his authority was derived from the will of the people and his adherence to the divine law, making him accountable to both.
Hazrat Umar (RA): The Institution of the Muhtasib
Hazrat Umar (RA) is perhaps the most celebrated figure in institutionalizing Hisbah, transforming it from an informal practice into a formal state institution. He established the office of the Muhtasib, a government official responsible for upholding public morality, ensuring fair trade, and preventing fraud in the markets. His own market inspections were legendary, and his directives, as documented in his epistles, were a practical guide for statecraft, emphasizing ethical conduct and public welfare. For example, in an epistle to Abu Musa al-Ashari (RA), he wrote, "Judge between the people in a manner that is fair and equal in your presence and your court." This shows that his directives to his officials were detailed and focused on ethical conduct, providing a practical model for statecraft.
Hazrat Usman (RA): Consultation and Community Welfare
Hazrat Usman (RA) continued the legacy of the previous caliphs, focusing on consultation and community welfare as key aspects of his rule. He was known for his vast public works projects, which were aimed at developing a state that served its people. His governance was a testament to the principle of Shura, and he was known to consult senior companions on important matters of state, such as the compilation of the Qur'an. His open-door policy and his commitment to using public funds for the benefit of the community demonstrated the importance of community welfare in governance. He was open to public feedback and sought to rule by consensus rather than by decree.
Hazrat Ali (RA): The Code of Governance for His Officials
Hazrat Ali (RA), the fourth caliph, provided an even more detailed and comprehensive framework for governance, particularly for his officials. His letter to his governor, Malik al-Ashtar, is a landmark document on Islamic governance and a comprehensive code of ethics for civil servants. This detailed epistle outlines the duties and responsibilities of officials, emphasizing justice, compassion for the weak, and the importance of an independent judiciary. In it, he instructed Malik al-Ashtar to "be fair and just, and do not show partiality to anyone." This powerful directive from the Nahj al-Balagha emphasizes the need for impartiality and ethical conduct in public office. His letter serves as a timeless manual for good governance, covering everything from the selection of honest officials to the equitable distribution of resources.
The Role of Hisbah in Market Regulation and Social Order
Throughout the Pious Caliphate, Hisbah was an active mechanism for maintaining social order, moving beyond the Prophet's informal practice to a formal, institutionalized role. The Muhtasib was an integral part of the governance structure, ensuring that markets were fair, weights and measures were accurate, and public spaces were safe and orderly. The historical accounts of the Pious Caliphs show how they would appoint individuals to this role to ensure compliance with ethical standards and prevent exploitation. This proactive approach to public administration demonstrates that Hisbah was not just a theoretical concept but a living institution that directly impacted the lives of ordinary citizens.
The Contemporary Applicability in Pakistan
Having established the historical and theological foundations of Islamic accountability, this article now turns to a critical examination of its relevance today, specifically within the context of Pakistan. It explores the current challenges and proposes how the principles of Hisbah can be a source for institutional reform.
The Current State of Accountability in Pakistan
In contemporary Pakistan, the concepts of accountability are often mired in legalistic complexities and political maneuvering. The existing institutions, while modeled on modern frameworks, often fail to address the systemic issues of corruption, nepotism, and injustice. The disconnect between these ideals and the reality on the ground has led to a crisis of public trust and governance, highlighting the need for a new paradigm rooted in ethical principles. For example, the legalistic accountability of modern institutions, as evidenced in many judicial and anti-corruption bodies, often focuses more on technicalities and procedures than on moral and ethical rectitude. This narrow focus can sometimes allow corruption to flourish even when laws are technically followed. This highlights the need for a more holistic approach that addresses not just the legality of actions but their moral implications.
Islamic Suggestions for Institutional Reform
The solution to these challenges may not be to abandon the existing system but to infuse it with the profound ethical dimensions of Islamic accountability. The principles of Hisbah and Islamic accountability offer concrete suggestions for institutional reform in Pakistan. This would involve moving beyond a purely legalistic framework to a more ethical one, where public officials are selected based on merit and piety, and where their primary goal is public service, not personal gain. Strengthening institutions like the judiciary and anti-corruption bodies by instilling in them the spirit of Adl and Amanah is critical for bringing about meaningful change. For instance, the principle of Amanah can be directly applied to civil service, where public office is treated as a sacred trust, making officials accountable not just to the state but to God and the people they serve. This ethical lens can transform the bureaucratic mindset from one of power to one of service.
Empowering the Public through the Spirit of Hisbah
A true reform movement must empower the public, moving beyond a passive electorate to an active, engaged citizenry. The spirit of Hisbah encourages citizens to be active participants in governance, holding their leaders accountable and speaking out against injustice. By fostering this spirit of proactive civic engagement, the public can become a powerful force for change, demanding transparency and integrity from their leaders. This aligns with the Qur'anic injunction in Surah Ali 'Imran (3:104) to "enjoin what is right and forbid what is wrong." This empowers the public to challenge injustice and demand accountability, ensuring that the government remains responsive to the needs and welfare of the people.
Ethical Leadership as a Cornerstone for Change
Real change must begin with ethical leadership, as the conduct of leaders sets the tone for the entire system. Leaders who embody the principles of Amanah and Adl are the first step toward reforming the entire system. Their personal piety and commitment to public service would set a powerful example, inspiring confidence and trust in the institutions they lead and encouraging others to follow suit. The Prophet's own life and the conduct of the Pious Caliphs serve as a living testament to this, where their personal integrity was the foundation of their public authority. Such leadership, rooted in ethical principles, can create a ripple effect, encouraging integrity throughout the public administration.
The Role of Education and Religious Institutions
To sustain this change, a long-term strategy is required, one that is built on the foundational pillars of education and moral guidance. Religious institutions and the education system have a vital role to play in this reform, as they are the primary means of inculcating the moral values of Islamic accountability. By teaching the true meaning of Islamic accountability and the principles of Hisbah, they can create a generation of future leaders and citizens who are guided by a strong moral compass. The Qur'anic emphasis on justice, knowledge, and piety provides a powerful curriculum for this purpose. This is essential for building a society where integrity and justice are not just ideals but lived realities, ensuring a sustainable and long-term reform of governance.
Critical Analysis: Bridging the Gap
While the Islamic principles of governance are compelling, their implementation in a modern context presents significant challenges. There is a fundamental disconnect between the spiritual and ethical ideals of Islamic governance, such as Hisbah and Amanah, and the secular, legalistic, and bureaucratic structures that often dominate modern state institutions, particularly those inherited from colonial legacies. The broad, moral scope of Hisbah itself can clash with modern conceptions of individual liberties, and there is a practical challenge in defining the authority of a Muhtasib in a way that prevents the abuse of power. The path forward, therefore, requires a thoughtful synthesis of traditional wisdom and modern governance. This involves adopting the ethical spirit of these Islamic principles to foster public service and integrity, while simultaneously leveraging modern tools like legal frameworks, institutional checks, and independent bodies such as ombudsman offices to ensure robust, administrative accountability. This approach allows for a system that is both ethically sound and administratively efficient, bridging the gap between historical ideals and contemporary reality.
Conclusion
The doctrine of Hisbah and accountability in Islam is a timeless and comprehensive framework for good governance. Rooted in the Qur'an and Sunnah and exemplified by the Holy Prophet (PBUH) and the Pious Caliphs, it provides a powerful moral and ethical blueprint for leadership and public service. Its focus on justice, trusteeship, and collective responsibility offers a compelling alternative to purely secular models of governance. While the contemporary challenges are immense, the spirit of Hisbah can be a powerful force for institutional reform and social change in Muslim-majority nations like Pakistan. The theoretical and historical analysis in this article provides a solid foundation for understanding the principles of Islamic accountability, which are frequently tested in competitive exams.
Possible CSS/PMS Exam Questions
1. Critically analyze the System of Accountability (hisbah) in Islam. How is it a more comprehensive concept than modern-day secular accountability mechanisms?
2. "The concept of al-amr bi al-maʿrūf wa al-nahy ʿan al-munkar is the cornerstone of Islamic governance." Discuss this statement with references from the Holy Qur’an and Sunnah.
3. Discuss the institutional practices of accountability during the era of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) and the Pious Caliphs. How can these practices be applied to address the challenges of governance in Pakistan today?
4. Examine the role of a leader as a trustee (Ameen) in the Islamic political system. What lessons can modern leaders in Pakistan learn from the conduct of Hazrat Umar (RA) in this regard?
5. How can the principles of hisbah be effectively integrated into Pakistan's governance framework to combat corruption and promote a culture of transparency?
6. Explain the concept of public participation in governance from an Islamic perspective, with a special focus on the right of a citizen to hold their rulers accountable.
