On November 2nd, USAID supported Afghanistan’s first conference to discuss elections and Islam. This important event gave Islamic scholars and government leaders an opportunity to work together to strengthen democracy. The conference was attended by representatives from government ministries, including the Minister of Hajj and Islamic Affairs and the Head of Independent Elections Commission, as well as more than 400 mullahs from around Kabul province.
Participants openly discussed elections, Islam and role of Muslims in voting. Professor Sharani, the Minister of Hajj, stated that Sharia Law orders Muslims to justice and service, and urged Muslims to take part in the electoral process and upcoming Afghan elections. At the end of the conference, the minister prepared and delivered a statement with seven key points on Islam and elections, detailing the rights and obligations of Afghans to vote for their leaders. The statement was well received and later accepted by all participants. Open discussions such as these serve to strengthen Afghanistan’s electoral process and help establish a Sharia-compliant approach to government participation.