During my student years, we used to attend the historic Sirat al-Nabi (peace be upon him) gathering in Chunti almost every year. There, we listened with keen interest to renowned Islamic speakers from different schools of thought who came from various parts of the country.
One particular aspect of their speeches drew my attention. Many of the country's well-known wa‘iz (Islamic preachers) adopted a highly critical and negative stance towards politics. Some even declared political involvement haram, issuing fatwas to that effect and presenting various arguments and evidences in support of their positions.
Similarly, a significant segment of the ulama at that time viewed politics with inherent suspicion. They advised others to stay away from it and, in most cases, voluntarily refrained from direct political activities.
However, as time passed, the landscape began to change.
Masha’Allah, many of them are now actively involved in direct politics, while some have assumed a significant political presence and role in what appears to be a relatively sudden transition.
There is no inherent objection to this in principle; indeed, under certain circumstances, such participation may be necessary and beneficial.
The concern, however, is that a lack of political experience and foresight, mutual disunity, organizational weaknesses, personality-centred tendencies, and, in many cases, opportunistic behaviour have become increasingly apparent.
More regrettably, instead of safeguarding the broader interests of the Din and the Muslim community, they sometimes appear to be turning into instruments for advancing the political objectives of others—a perception that is also emerging among the public.
Another aspect is equally noticeable. Their political activities often seem to display more division, disagreement, and fragmentation than constructive initiatives.
Rather than prioritizing unity, coordination, and long-term strategic thinking, immediate reactions, fragmented initiatives, and personal ambitions for power and leadership appear to be taking precedence.
Considering these realities, I sometimes wonder whether their earlier tendency to remain distant from politics might, in certain respects, have been safer and more beneficial for them.
In the present context, too, it seems that until adequate political preparation, a far-sighted outlook, organizational capacity, and mutual unity have been established, it may be more beneficial for them to focus greater attention on da‘wah, education, research, and social reform rather than become excessively involved in the turbulent arena of politics. Such an approach could prove more fruitful not only for the ulama themselves but also for the nation and the broader religious community.
At the same time, rather than seeking to emerge primarily as a political force, they could strive to build a united, well-organized, and effective socio-religious pressure group. In the long run, such an approach may enable them to make a more positive and enduring contribution to the country, the nation, and the Ummah.
—Personal Observations and Opinion