PESHAWAR, Jan 18: Genuine democracy, rule of law and consultation process can help the Muslim world meet the present day’s challenges. This was stated by Dr Mohammad Farooq Khan who presided over a seminar held at the Khana-i-Farhang-i-Islami Jamhoori Iran here on Wednesday.

Spotlighting the qualities of the fourth caliph, he said Hazrat Ali (RA) was not only a trusted aide to the Holy Prophet (PBUH), but also a great leader and visionary. Dr Farooq said Hazrat Ali (RA) stood by the Prophet (PBUH) through thick and thin right from the early days of Islam till his departure from this world.

When ascending the caliphate, Hazrat Ali (RA) endeared himself to the rule of Islamic law, justice and consultation process. Through good governance, he set examples for others to follow, added the scholar while quoting different incidents from his life.

Dr Khan lamented the weak position of Muslims all over the world. Democracy, rule of law, justice, honesty, merit, consultation, education, science and technology and strong state institutions were needed for meaningful progress.

Another religious scholar from Islamabad, Allama Sajid Ali Subhani, shed light on the life and achievements of Hazrat Ali (RA).

He made it clear that Seerat did not mean a biography but a way of life. Uswa or a role model is urgently required to get excelled, and Hazrat Ali (RA) led an exemplary life as his role model was no one else but the Holy Prophet Mohammad (PBUH), he pointed out.

Prof Dr Hafiz Abdul Ghafoor, Chairman of the Seerat Studies, University of Peshawar, said Hazrat Ali (RA) embraced Islam at the age 10 and cooperated with Prophet (PBUH) for the glory of Islam.