Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

4-minute read
25 May 2024 | 09:46 CAT

The Muslim Voter’s Guide Series by Sheikh Anwar Jhetam and Sheikh Casper Hasan Labuschagne. Image/ Waleed Bata

As the National and Provincial Elections in South Africa draw near, a distinctive and thought-provoking handbook has surfaced to help Muslim voters make educated choices. Entitled “The Muslim Voter’s Guide Series,” this two-part publication systematically assesses political parties using Islamic values.

The second part, “How Should Muslims Vote?”, expands on the groundwork set in “How Should Muslim Voters Decide?”. The Islamicity Index is a tool created by the authors to assist voters in evaluating how well political parties uphold Islamic values. This index, designed with political analysts, economists, and journalist’s input, seeks to make the voting process more nuanced and values-oriented.

The Islamicity Index evaluates political parties based on various factors, placing significant importance on justice, which is the foundation of governance in Islam. The guide assesses political parties based on their dedication to justice, preservation of religion, life, intelligence, ancestry, and wealth. Every category is carefully evaluated to measure how well a party’s policies and actions align with these values.

The guide also presents the “Intifada at the Ballot Box” strategy, which encourages voters to consider a party’s position on Palestine. This method highlights the significance of standing in unity with marginalized groups and seeks to create legislative spaces in South Africa that do not endorse “Zionist Apartheid,” as the authors describe it. The guide urges voters to resist parties that endorse or remain indifferent to Israeli policies, advising them to protest against worldwide injustices as a fundamental part of their civic responsibility.

Although the guide is based on Islamic teachings, it also encourages critical thinking. It urges Muslims to participate critically in political matters instead of unthinkingly following religious leaders. This method aligns with the Islamic practice of acquiring knowledge and seeking professional advice.

This guide is notable for its dedication to intellectual rigour and community empowerment. The authors acknowledge that their methodology is still experimental and can be improved. They encourage readers to see the guide as a dynamic document that grows with fresh perspectives and evolving situations.

Adding expert opinions from individuals like Dr Ahmed Jazbhay, Ebrahim Fakir, and Qaanitah Hunter enhances the analysis by offering diverse perspectives on how various parties stack against the Islamicity Index. Their assessments provide valuable information, assisting voters in navigating the intricate political terrain with knowledgeable viewpoints.

In essence, “The Muslim Voter’s Guide Series” is more than just a voting handbook; it is an educational resource promoting a greater understanding of political involvement from an Islamic perspective. While South Africans vote, this manual helps Muslim voters connect their political decisions with their religion, supporting a fair, equal, and thriving community.

Read the second part, “How Should Muslims Vote?” by Sheikh Anwar Jhetam and Sheikh Casper Hasan Labuschagne, by clicking on the link below.

[Part 2 – The Muslim Voter’s Guide Series] How Should Muslims Vote