Public Opinion

Abstract

The Holy Qur’an and Sunnah of the Messenger of Allah ( صلی لله علیہ وسلم ) are the Primary sources of all rule of conduct in Islam. Hence every thing is to be tested on this touchstone. All their principles promote human welfare and dignity and safeguard against all sorts of adverse effects. For good governance the Qur’anic guidance is:

(They are) those who, if we establish them In the land, establish regular prayer and give regular charity, enjoin the right and forbid wrong: with Allah rests the end (and decision) of (all) affairs. [22:41]

The institution of Prayer and Zakat show that even the rulers are to obey Allah and the Messenger of Allah (صلی لله علیہ و آلہ وسلم ). The institution of enjoining good and forbidding evil is the discipline. This institution generates discipline, maintains it and brings forward its fruits in the form of welfare and well being. The concept of accountability has been given in the ending sentence of the glorious verse. The accountability is of the responsibility and responsibility is to play the role which brings dignity of mankind. Dignity of mankind requires good governance and good governance comes by integrity and competence. Public Opinion at every stage has its effect in this process. The whole socioeconomic imbalance is due to the lack of awareness among the masses. Where people are civilized this earth has become Paradise and where people are dishonest this earth has become hell. It is the human element which is to mend itself. Role of public opinion becomes more important and more significant every moment.