Islam and Human Rights — Page 173
Article 21 173 situa tion may be deemed to be best fitted for the purpose laid down. The State must carry out its responsibilities in consult ation with the people directly or through their representa tives, as the situation may demand (3:160). This is necess ary for the purpose of keeping the administration in touch with the people and informed of their views, and also for the purpose of training the representatives of the people in the conduct of pub1ic affairs. The administration of public affairs through appropriate consultation of competent persons should be a characteristic of Muslim society. “Those who hearken to their Lord and observe Prayer, and whose affairs are determined by mutual consultation, and who spend out of whatsoever We have bestowed upon them (42:39). On the part of the people, co-operation with, and obedience to, those set in authority and entrusted with the conduct of public affairs is placed in juxtaposition to the duty of obedience owed to Allah and to His Messenger. If any differences should develop they must be settled in accordance with the precepts laid down in the Quran and illustrated and expounded by the Prophet. “O ye who believe, obey Allah and obey His Messenger and those who are in authority among you.