In the 1960s and 1970s, the army used to seize power in the developing nations. The military felt they could run nations better than the politicians of the time. Of course there are countries such as Pakistan where, because of land-related conflicts with neighbours, the military is never far-off from the corridors of power. Even in Pakistan and in most developing nations people now recognise, military rule is unmitigated disaster. The military is best to look after defence matters.
The question is: will the use of religion bring a good government for Somalia? It is true, according to the Holy Qur’an we are required to rule ourselves by the word of the Almighty. Unfortunately, many Muslims confuse Sharia (the judiciary) with public administration (political matters). The judiciary is one of the pillars of the state. Governing, like the Judiciary has its separate path. Normally a medical doctor will not be a dentist; the same way a veterinarian is not a physician trained to cure humans. Every field has its own path and every field requires its specialists. That is why the Almighty wants mankind to seek knowledge. In the Hadith HASAN MASHHÛR – the Prophet impressed upon Muslims to seek knowledge no matter how far the distant — even as far as China: "Seeking knowledge is an obligation upon every Muslim."
In the 16th century, the churches used to rule in Europe. It is now many centuries since religion and politics have been separated in the West. We must ask, why? The reason is because religion and politics are lethal mix. Again we must ask, why? The problem is not religion. The problem is man. Guns do not kill. It is man who uses them to kill. The use of religion is subject to interpretation. Ten witnesses of one incident are likely to tell ten different stories (versions). Man has issues and flaws such as bias, attitude, greed, ego and many more. He or she also had a certain upbringing and certain schooling. The person who rules does not come out of a box like brand-new merchandise. An individual has a background, which shaped one’s outlook and attitude. Another important factor concerns values. Values come from one’s environment and upbringing. Values (qiyam) are cherished things such as land, flag, nation etc. If one’s parent(s) were clannish, one is likely to be clannish. Anyone can learn the entire Holy book by heart. One’s fairness (fair-mindedness) and judiciousness does not come by the mere reading of the holy book — they stem from other factors.
A good government cannot be without positive criticism and constructive dissent. Man is fallible and those who rule need to be told when they are wrong. If mistakes are not mentioned how else will they be addressed? Unfortunately, it is hard to criticize clerics who use religion to rule. They will not tolerate dissent as they are likely to believe their verdicts are divinely inspired. They will dismiss any critic of their actions and will swing to swift action. What a man does is done by man. It has nothing to do with divinity. In the eyes of the Creator everybody is equal. And no-one is a direct representative of God after the prophets.
The Somali people applaud the peace agreement reached in Djibouti on 9 June 2008. It is a good start which paves the way for a lasting peace in Somalia. The situation is very intricate and complex, but because of the peace agreement a new beginning has been achieved. It looks the Courts’ side which was a party to the negotiations have come a long way. This peace agreement if unhindered will end the presence of the Ethiopian forces in Somalia. The Somali people recognize that the Courts’ leadership which has signed the peace accord has shown a willingness to put the national interests above personal gain. The people also recognize the endeavour of the TFG side headed by the Prime Minister Nur Adde to bring a lasting peace to Somalia. It is not wise to oppose this peace agreement at its embryonic stage. This would not serve in the best interest of our nation. The continuation of violence will only prolong the misery of our people and leave no option for Ethiopian other than to remain in Somalia.
It is always right to do what is in the best interest of our nation. We love our religion. We also love our nation. We know what works. Politics may not have delivered yet for the Somali people but that does not mean politics is the wrong application. It will depend on who is utilizing it. To govern well will no doubt require a deeper understanding of politics. It is important those who rule to be told when they are wrong. Good governing will need special skills. But any organization which rules through the use of religion will not bring Somalia any closer to the establishment of a better government. Let us remind ourselves that it is humans who run things (including governments) — not holy books. Even the holy words are subject to interpretation. It is not a secret that people interpret things differently. There is no doubt the Islamic Courts, during their short spell in the capital, have done a number of good things. They have also committed errors. Every nation has its judiciary (courts). But judiciary is best when it confines itself to legal matters. The question is: how to consolidate the good aspects of the Islamic Courts in the new Somali State? Sheikh Sharif has shown maturity as well as quick grasp of things. While rigidity and obduracy are the signs of bad leadership, open-mindedness and quick learning are the qualities of good leadership. In 2009, a unity government headed by Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed is the way forward. To form and run an effective government, the nation will also require a capable Prime Minister. In my next piece let us explore how such a unity government can give Somalia the best of both worlds.
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