Any attempt to overthrow a just govt is haram, says Islamic scholar

Any attempt to overthrow a government that governs justly is forbidden, or haram, in Islam, says Kelantan religious scholar Syeikh Wazir Che Awang Al-Makki.

Syeikh Wazir said such actions resembled those of the Khawarij, a group that opposed the rule of Saidina Uthman and fought against Saidina Ali.

The adviser to the Kelantan Association of Pondok Institutions said such actions should not be attempted, let alone against the leadership of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.

“Overthrowing a just government is haram in Islam. Those who seek to do so are acting like the Khawarij,” he said at the Sebarkan Salam@Kota Bharu Berselawat programme at Masjid Muhammadi here last night.

Present were Anwar, Kelantan menteri besar Nassuruddin Daud, religious affairs minister Zulkifli Hasan and his deputy, Marhamah Rosli.

Another religious scholar, Abdul Rahman Omar, said continued attempts by certain quarters to undermine the country’s leadership reflected ingratitude for the stability enjoyed by the nation.

Rahman, the mudir (head) of Pondok Aur Cina, said a leader’s appointment was ultimately determined by Allah, while public support and the selection process served as the means through which it came about.

He prayed for Anwar to be granted a long life and to continue leading the country so that the people could enjoy further benefits.