Money politics and Islam

Money politics and Islam

From Pikiran Rakyat

Some political parties are expressing concern over the possibility of money politics as the general election approaches. Money politics in the context of the general election means buying people votes.

The former chairman of Pemuda Pancasila's West Java branch, Bakti Sujana, told Pikiran Rakyat daily that money politics could take the form of service or aid to society with the aim of winning votes in the election.

In this case, Muslims should be sensitive enough to deal with the matter and determine the correct steps according to Islamic values. How does Islam view this matter?

Money politics can be compared to riswah (bribery, graft, etc.); i.e. money or materials given to individuals or parties with the hope of getting something in return. Vote buying by political parties is an example of this practice. The people must be left alone and given the freedom to vote (or not to vote) for the party of their choice without intimidation.

Islam strongly denounces any form of bribery. True Muslims should refrain from trying to achieve their objectives through bribery or money politics. One should remember that a person who bribes, receives a bribe or witnesses the occurrence of bribery is haram in Islam.

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