The role of values in political reform preoccupies those interested in politics, whether theorists or practitioners. the question of the positive impact of upholding values in political work, or the negative impact of marginalizing or neglecting them, is often raised.
Experts and analysts, conforming to "Al-Mujtama," believe that political reform can only be achieved by individuals who have been raised and nurtured on the values of justice, equality, freedom, and integrity, and by institutions that were established and developed on these foundations. This is reflected in daily behaviour and political practice. Merely talking about values and extolling them in speeches is not sufficient unless they are embodied in decision-making, participation, and implementation with the necessary wisdom and consultation, in a manner that serves the interests of the nation and its citizens.
Al-Idrisi: For Reform to Fulfill Its Strategic Roles, It Must Be Framed by a System of Core Values
Political reform stands as a cornerstone of broader reform efforts, having significant and impactful ramifications on all fields and sectors. In fact, it can be regarded as the central pivot alongside educational and economic reform.
Moroccan academic Abdulaziz Al-Idrisi asserts that for this reform to fulfil its strategic roles in achieving development, democracy, and dignity, it must be framed by a system of core values. These values constitute a set of standards that shape an individual's internal convictions and perceptions, as well as the norms that govern external behaviours and actions.
The Moroccan researcher in Islamic thought and reform issues emphasizes that this task should be undertaken by an elite that believes in these values: freedom, justice, dignity, transparency, achievement, work, competence, and merit. They must first embody these values in their practices within their organizations and institutions, and secondly, work to realize them in areas of responsibility, ensuring the dignity and well-being of citizens. This should be done by drawing inspiration from successful models from both the past and present.
He highlights that the value of freedom, for instance, which is considered one of the fundamental political values, guarantees freedom of expression, equal opportunities, the peaceful transfer of power, and the democratic management of differences among political factions. It also ensures the fair distribution of wealth and consultation in decision-making. The absence of freedom has dire consequences for societies, leading to the spread of oppression, tyranny, and corruption at both individual and institutional levels.
Amhajour: The Presence of Islamic Reference in Political Work Should Be Functional
Political Integrity
Those engaged in politics from a values-based perspective recognize the importance of individual integrity and the promotion of general values such as consultation and justice. However, this alone is not sufficient to embed values within the political reform system.
Moroccan political analyst Mohamed Amhajour believes that the presence of Islamic reference in political action should be functional, providing a reformist depth to political practice. Political integrity should manifest as political integrity, rather than being replaced by personal integrity and individual religiosity.
He emphasizes that political integrity involves implementing effective and practical public policies that affect citizens' daily lives. This includes measures that realize and uphold values of freedom, justice, and dignity, combat oppression and poverty, support values of integrity and transparency, fight corruption, ensure the proper use of public funds, and prioritize public service and addressing people's needs without seeking personal gain or causing harm.
Sheikh Sidiya: There Can Be No Political Reform Without Establishing a Set of Islamic Values
He indicates that political integrity, in this sense, serves as a solid foundation for differentiating between politicians and public leaders. It becomes the standard for alliances and coalitions and an objective measure to assess the extent of adherence to Islamic guiding values in politics and governance.
Combating Corruption
No political reform can succeed without the concerted efforts of reformers to combat corruption. Numerous studies indicate that the spread of bribery, for example, highlights opportunists in politics, threatens social cohesion, and kills the enthusiasm of investors.
Mauritanian academic Ismail Moussa Sheikh Sidiya emphasizes that there can be no serious political reform without establishing a set of values advocated by Islam. Adhering to these values can lead to sound Islamic governance. At the forefront of these values is the fight against corruption, which undermines our societies and obstructs all attempts at progress.
The researcher, who is interested in the history of the contemporary Islamic revival, adds that corruption manifests in various aspects of public life. There is political corruption, which leads to the silencing of voices, the confiscation of freedoms, and the prevention of active forces from contributing to the national construction battle. There is also economic corruption, which reduces development projects to mere ink on paper and wastes many resources on futile endeavours.
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