🗳 Electoral Reforms in Light of Islamic Principles
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The modern electoral system, widely accepted globally, is generally considered standard and final. As a result, most people are unwilling to even consider viable alternatives. However, when freed from societal bias and conventional pressure, it becomes evident that other systems are possible and practical.
Examples from around the world:
Hence, treating any single model as absolute is incorrect and intellectually restrictive.
① The public nominates suitable individuals from their own constituency.
② Candidacy is based on merit, including:
③ A nomination is only approved if a minimum number of people (e.g., 500 or 1,000) endorse it.
Candidates do not fund their own campaigns or make hollow promises. Instead:
➤ Neutral Promotion
The Commission highlights each candidate’s qualifications and ethics impartially.
➤ Removal of Voter Pressure
The influence of camps and coercion at polling stations is eliminated.
➤ Fair and Transparent Elections
All candidates receive equal opportunity, ensuring integrity in selection.
Currently, many nations follow a single-member constituency system, which often results in:
Mathematical Imbalance:
Example: In a constituency of 10,000 voters
Reform Suggestions:
Islam promotes Shūrā (consultation) as a foundational principle of governance.
A righteous and efficient government is achieved through honest representatives and expert advisory teams.
➤ Discouraging power-seeking behavior
➤ Mandatory consultation in governance
➤ Flexibility in structuring electoral details, delegated to people of insight, allowing adaptation to each era's needs
Reforming the electoral system in light of Islamic principles is both practical and impactful.
From candidate nomination to public campaigning and voting process, every step can be improved for transparency, fairness, and efficiency.
This approach can lead to the election of trustworthy, competent, and sincere individuals who genuinely serve the public interest.
Written by: —
Current Trends in Electoral Systems
The modern electoral system, widely accepted globally, is generally considered standard and final. As a result, most people are unwilling to even consider viable alternatives. However, when freed from societal bias and conventional pressure, it becomes evident that other systems are possible and practical.
Examples from around the world:- Proportional Representation
- Second Ballot System
- Transferable Vote System
Hence, treating any single model as absolute is incorrect and intellectually restrictive.
A New Electoral Model: Public Proposal Instead of Self-Nomination
✔ Candidate Selection Based on Public Suggestion
① The public nominates suitable individuals from their own constituency.
② Candidacy is based on merit, including:
- Educational qualification
- Integrity and character
- Social service record
- Practical experience
③ A nomination is only approved if a minimum number of people (e.g., 500 or 1,000) endorse it.
Verification Process
- The Election Commission confirms that endorsers are genuine residents of the constituency.
- The eligibility criteria of the nominee are thoroughly assessed.
Neutral and Equal Campaign Opportunities
Candidates do not fund their own campaigns or make hollow promises. Instead:
- The Election Commission introduces them to the public
- Media outlets broadcast structured interviews and public profiles
- Voters assess them based on merit and honesty, not wealth or charisma
Analysis of Current System’s Flaws
- Candidates spend millions on campaigning, often using dishonest tactics
- Only the wealthy can afford to run for office
- A sincere, middle-class individual can hardly consider contesting
- Elected officials often recover campaign expenses through corruption
Benefits of the Proposed System
➤ Neutral Promotion
The Commission highlights each candidate’s qualifications and ethics impartially.
➤ Removal of Voter Pressure
The influence of camps and coercion at polling stations is eliminated.
➤ Fair and Transparent Elections
All candidates receive equal opportunity, ensuring integrity in selection.
Constituency Structure and Reform Suggestions
Currently, many nations follow a single-member constituency system, which often results in:
Mathematical Imbalance:Example: In a constituency of 10,000 voters
- 9 candidates receive 1,000 votes each
- 1 candidate receives 2,000 votes and wins,
despite 9,000 people voting against him
Reform Suggestions:- Expand constituencies and adopt a multi-member electoral model
- Elect multiple top vote-getters to better represent the population
Islamic Foundations: Shūrā and Governance
Islam promotes Shūrā (consultation) as a foundational principle of governance.
A righteous and efficient government is achieved through honest representatives and expert advisory teams.
Scope of Shūrā:
- Must be implemented from national to village levels
- Each minister should be accompanied by a consultative team for swift and wise decisions
Key Islamic Guidelines:
➤ Discouraging power-seeking behavior
➤ Mandatory consultation in governance
➤ Flexibility in structuring electoral details, delegated to people of insight, allowing adaptation to each era's needs
Conclusion
Reforming the electoral system in light of Islamic principles is both practical and impactful.
From candidate nomination to public campaigning and voting process, every step can be improved for transparency, fairness, and efficiency.
This approach can lead to the election of trustworthy, competent, and sincere individuals who genuinely serve the public interest.
