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.

YANE UTAMI

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