Islam's Response to Contemporary Issues — Page 244
244 islam’s response to contemporary issues whenever they clash with the perceived national interest, and as long as this remains the definition of loyalty to one’s state, the political behaviour of man will remain dubious, controversial and ever paradoxical. The Holy Quran mentions the responsibilities of government and people. Some of these responsibilities have been mentioned in the earlier sections of this lecture—the provision of food, clothing, shelter and the basic needs of its citizens; the principles of international aid; answerability to both the government and the people; their interplay; absolute justice; and sensibility to the problems of the people so that they do not have to raise their voice in demand of their rights. In a true Islamic system of government, it is the responsibility of the government to be watchful so that people do not have to resort to strikes, industrial strife, demonstration, sabotage or cause of complaint, to get their rights. Let us turn briefly to some other responsibilities. The Holy Quran states: If thou apprehend treachery from the people who have made a pact with thee, terminate the pact and their covenant with equity in a manner that should occasion no prejudice. Surely, Allah loves not the treacherous. 15 Those who govern may not govern in a manner so as to promote disorder, chaos, suffering and pain but should work diligently and effectively so as to establish peace in every sphere of society.