Muslims who vote are observing an act of worship.

Muslims who vote are observing an act of worship.

We have to respect the fact that Canada is a gift for both its citizens and the world as it offers a unique model of democracy that is absent or fought for in many places in the world. While nothing is perfect it’s an amazing experiment of success that stands apart in the world of corruption and buying of votes.

Hence when Muslims deny the duty to vote and play politics of back stabbing each other, while calling towards one's religion or ethnic background they are playing into the very devil that chose to divide the Umma upon the demise of the Holy Prophet, on whom be peace. People wanted the Caliph to be on their tribal lines, family ties and friendship basis. The decision to finally choose the Caliph Abu Bakr, may Allah be please with him, was on virtue, wisdom, experience, leadership, piety, and character, that were placed in front of the Companions and their response became unanimous despite the initial divide. Like block voting or coalition votes!

This shows that we have a duty to speak from the mimbar/pulpit and its likes today, as Umar Bin Khattab, may Allah be pleased with him, stood up and spoke out that day on behalf of not only the religion and its preservation but the preservation of life, property, dignity, justice and well being- the very values Islam and Canada share like canoes and Canadian lakes.

Are we remiss of the fact that it’s not about religion only that marks support of leadership when King Negus is praised before Islam for his justice and reliance to help Muslim refugees? Have we forgotten the fact that the Holy Prophet, on whom be peace, remarked if he was called again to join the League of Justice established before Islam in order to grant respite to poor Arabs he would respond and attend? Have we not realised that 75% of Muslims do not live in a Muslim majority country and even those that do are not governed completely by Islamic Laws? Then to show indifference in the name of religion is to lack the proper attitude towards religion of social cohesiveness and tradition of community participation.

For those who have bad experiences in their previous domicile they need to understand the transparency, supervision and meticulous care that was taken to build the present democratic machinery of Canada and must have faith in a system that provides security, livelihood and opportunities beyond comparison

So vote and be blessed and encourage others to do the same and get double reward- for whoever establishes a good deed gets the rewards of those that follow.

Voting is bearing shahadat or testimony on behalf of a candidate that you think in your best knowledge is best capable of the job at hand. To be a witness is an act of conscience and when the whole world tells you otherwise remember the Hadith says ask your conscience and follow your heart. So this is so much a freedom of expression that you are exercising and is so much compared to the verse-

2:283 And do not conceal what you have witnessed - for, verily, he who conceals it is sinful at heart; and God has full knowledge of all that you do.

and

2:256 Let there be no compulsion in religion.

Thank You!