Imam Nadim Ali: The Unchecked Influence of Wealth in Politics:

[Bilal Mahmud المكافح المخلص]

The Unchecked Influence of Wealth in Politics: An Islamic Perspective By Imam Nadim Sulaiman Ali

By:  Imam Nadim S. Ali

The recent moves by the Trump administration can be summed up as the culmination of Citizens United a ruling by the Supreme Court that stated spending money on politics is a form of free speech and protected by the First Amendment:

(https://www.brennancenter.org/our-work/research-reports/citizens-un...)

Since this ruling the unchecked influence of wealth in politics has been a pervasive issue that undermines democratic principles, perpetuates inequality, and erodes public trust in governance. 

In modern societies, the concentration of wealth often translates into disproportionate political power, enabling the affluent to shape policies, laws, and institutions in their favor. This phenomenon, often referred to as plutocracy, stands in stark contrast to the principles of justice, equity, and accountability that Islam champions. From an Islamic perspective, the unchecked influence of wealth in politics is not only a moral failing but also a violation of divine guidance.

Islam places immense emphasis on justice (*‘adl*) and fairness in governance. The Quran explicitly condemns the misuse of wealth and power to manipulate societal systems. In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:188), Allah warns, *And do not consume one another's wealth unjustly or send it [in bribery] to the rulers in order that [they might aid] you [to] consume a portion of the wealth of the people in sin, while you know [it is unlawful]. This verse highlights the prohibition of using wealth to corrupt political processes, as it leads to the exploitation of the vulnerable,  and the perpetuation of injustice.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) also emphasized the dangers of wealth and power when they are misused. He stated, every nation has its trial, and the trial of my nation is wealth* (Sunan al-Tirmidhi). This hadith underscores the potential of wealth to corrupt individuals and systems if left unchecked.

 In the context of politics, the unchecked influence of wealth can lead to decisions that prioritize the interests of the elite over the welfare of the masses, thereby violating the Islamic principle of *maslahah* (public interest).

Islamic governance is rooted in the concept of *shura* (consultation), which ensures that decision-making is inclusive and reflective of the people's needs. 

The Quran states, *And those who have responded to their lord and established prayer and whose affair is [determined by] consultation among themselves, and from what We have provided them, they spend* (Surah Ash-Shura 42:38). This principle promotes transparency and accountability, countering the concentration of power in the hands of the wealthy. When wealth dictates political outcomes, the spirit of *shura* is undermined, and governance becomes a tool for self-serving agendas rather than communal well-being.

Moreover, Islam advocates for the equitable distribution of wealth to prevent societal imbalances. The Quran repeatedly calls for the support of the poor and marginalized, as seen in Surah Al-Hashr (59:7) :that wealth may not circulate only among the rich from among you. This directive is a direct rebuke of systems that allow the wealthy to monopolize resources and influence, leaving the less fortunate disempowered. The unchecked influence of wealth in politics exacerbates such disparities, creating a cycle of privilege and deprivation.

In conclusion, the unchecked influence of wealth in politics is antithetical to Islamic values of justice, fairness, and communal welfare. Islam provides a comprehensive framework for governance that prioritizes accountability, inclusivity, and the equitable distribution of resources.  To address this issue, societies must draw upon these principles to reform political systems, ensuring that power is exercised for the greater good rather than the enrichment of a select few. 

As the Quran reminds us, “Allah commands you to uphold justice and to do good…” (Surah An-Nahl 16:90). It is through adherence to these divine commands that the corrosive influence of wealth in politics can be effectively curbed.  It is important for the people to stand up to the 1%, and not allow their addiction to power to undermine the needs and aspirations of the 99%.  This phenomena is a global effort, and the response to it must be global. The principles of  Islam are the ultimate solution to the machinations of the oligarchs. 

[Bilal Mahmud المكافح المخلص]

Kofi Bilal Mahmud Eid AlFitr 1443 A.H.

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Kofi Bilal Mahmud

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