Islamic Character

A good leader must ensure that his orders are effectively carried out “Suppose I appoint someone who appear to be a good leader and command him to make justice his ideal,” said Umar, “tell me – will I have discharged my responsibilities?” Those assembled replied that he would have done all that could be expected of him. “Not so,” replied Umar. “I should also have to see to it that he does as I command.” (AL-BAYHAQI, IBN ASAKIR) Whenever Umar appointed a new governor, he would make enquires about him from envoys from the land he ruled over. Was he a ruler who cared about his subjects, did he visit slaves and walk in funeral processions? Was he accessible to his people and sympathetic towards those who came to his door? If the answers were that he heard cases sympathetically and looked after slaves well, Umar would permit his rule to continue, but otherwise he would promptly appoint another governor to relieve him of his post. (KANZ AL-UMMAL)