Concept of public Administration & Quranic Guidance on Good Governance

Concept of Public Administration in Islam:
Justice and Equity:

Islam places a strong emphasis on justice and equity in public administration. Leaders are instructed to uphold justice in their decisions and actions, ensuring fair treatment for all citizens.

Quranic Verse: "O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm for Allah, witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness." (Quran 5:8)

Accountability and Transparency:

Public administrators are accountable to both the people and, ultimately, to Allah. Transparency in decision-making and accountability for actions are fundamental principles.

Quranic Verse: "And those who [carefully] maintain their prayer: They will be in gardens, honored." (Quran 70:34-35)

Service to Humanity:

Public administration in Islam is seen as a service to humanity. Administrators are encouraged to serve the people with humility and a sense of responsibility.

Quranic Verse: "And they give food in spite of love for it to the needy, the orphan, and the captive." (Quran 76:8)

Welfare and Social Justice:

Public policies should aim at the welfare of society and the achievement of social justice. Economic policies, for example, should address poverty and promote equitable distribution of resources.

Quranic Verse: "And [they are] those who, [while] if We establish them in the land, establish prayer and give zakah and enjoin what is right and forbid what is wrong. And to Allah belongs the outcome of [all] matters." (Quran 22:41)

Quranic Guidance on Good Governance:
Consultation (Shura):

The Quran encourages leaders to consult with the people in matters of governance. Decision-making should be participatory and inclusive.

Quranic Verse: "And those who [conduct] their affairs by mutual consultation..." (Quran 42:38)

Rule of Law:

Good governance in Islam is based on the rule of law. Leaders and administrators are subject to the same laws as the general population.

Quranic Verse: "And whoever does not judge by what Allah has revealed, then it is those who are the wrongdoers." (Quran 5:45)

Protection of Minority Rights:

Islam emphasizes the protection of minority rights and the fair treatment of all citizens, regardless of their background.

Quranic Verse: "O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm for Allah, witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness." (Quran 5:8)

Avoidance of Corruption:

Corruption is strongly condemned in Islam, and leaders are reminded to avoid any form of injustice or dishonesty.

Quranic Verse: "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]." (Quran 2:188)

Protection of Rights:

The Quran emphasizes the protection of individual rights and freedoms, ensuring that individuals are treated justly and with dignity.

Quranic Verse: "And We have certainly honored the children of Adam and carried them on the land and sea and provided for them of the good things and preferred them over much of what We have created, with [definite] preference." (Quran 17:70)

In summary, the concept of public administration in Islam is deeply rooted in principles of justice, accountability, transparency, service to humanity, and the pursuit of social welfare. Quranic guidance on good governance provides a comprehensive framework for leaders and administrators to follow, promoting ethical conduct, equitable policies, and the overall well-being of society.