Date: 28.02.2016
Presenter: Mufti Moosagie
Guests: Ml Ebrahim Bham; Ml Ihsan Hendricks; Br Ibrahim Patel; Br Faizal Ameerudin; Sheikh Ihsan Talib; Ml Junaid Adam; Ml Yusuf Patel; Ml Muhammad Tariq

The weekly panel discussion preceding the upcoming municipal elections arranged by UUCSA, featured the views given by various Ulama.

Ml Bham discussed the 2 types of laws in this world that govern us as human beings: the laws laid out by Allah SWT and the laws set out by man. The laws of Allah SWT hold supreme, yet many of the laws that are part of our daily lives are man-made and as long as they benefit us, there is no harm in adhering to them. Ml Bham spoke about Islam being compatible with democracy. The best leader after Nabi SAW was Umar RA due to the justice he employed in his rule. Muslims are required to choose the better of the 2 options when given the choice, and in this case the choice is democracy.

Ml Hendricks explained the principle of acknowledging our Muslim identity in the country when participating in the elections, with some background on how the Muslims participated in shaping the citizenship of this country. Ml Hendricks referred to ‘The Good Story’ as mentioned by President Zuma. Corruption in SA in every department in government is leading to political instability. It is essential for every Muslim citizen in this country to take responsibility and speak out against corruption.

Br Ibrahim Patel discussed Muslim involvement in politics post 1994. Muslims have marginalised themselves, perhaps with the view that the struggle is over. It is important, in this time when SA is facing so many problems, to stay involved on the political front despite being a minority group, otherwise we will soon lose our voice in government. Br Ibrahim also spoke about what we should be looking for in a candidate when voting. Integrity is the most essential characteristic when choosing a politician we want to vote into power. You can only make a difference if you participate in the process.

Br Faizal Ameerudin outlined the origins of democracy and how it has evolved. Democracy, according to the Greeks where it originated, means the rule by the people to govern themselves. There are many types of democracy; socialistic, monarchal and constitutional. Br Faizal discussed the price our freedom as Muslims in this country has come at.

Sheikh Ihsan commented on the number of activists in the Muslim community who contributed to the liberation struggle. Unfortunately, many of the names of Muslims who participated in bringing SA to democracy have been lost. We are supposed to be at the service of humanity and thus at the service of Allah SWT. Compared to the rest of the world, the ability that we as Muslims have in this country to express ourselves is second to none, which is why we should be grateful to Allah and play our part in uplifting society.

Ml Junaid elaborated on the disillusionment being felt by the citizens of SA, but this is a problem that is being faced by many other countries in the world. It is important for us not to become apathetic, but rather to stand together and be positive in this time of political turmoil. We should lead by example by registering to vote so that this situation of apathy can be reversed. Muslims must continue contributing to democracy by casting our ballot.

Ml Yusuf Patel covered the aspect of why it is important for Muslims to vote in the local elections. If you want a working neighbourhood and community, you are required to vote to improve your daily living conditions. Failing to vote is not a neutral act, rather it is giving strength to the next person’s vote. We take for granted the freedom we enjoy as Muslims in this country; we are not expected to assimilate into the culture of the country but are instead allowed to integrate without losing our Muslim identity. Your vote is not a blanket endorsement of the candidate you have chosen, however it is essential to make an informed choice. By voting, you are fulfilling a moral and ethical responsibility.

Ml Muhammad Tariq mentioned the importance of having Muslims in Parliament and in the Government to represent our community. He also spoke about points to consider regarding the candidates before ticking the ballot sheet. Our involvement within the political process will ensure that the Muslims of this country will not be marginalised. We stand to make a difference by being patriotic and participating.

An interesting discussion with many points to consider, the main one being that Muslims should be encourage to vote in the upcoming municipal elections; a sentiment that was strongly voice by all the participants.