Exploring the vision of Imam Khomeini and Ayatulla Khamenei through the lens of religious democracy.
On 31st May 2025, Dr. Hassan Kinyua Omari representing the University of Nairobi - Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies, and the Muslim Professionals League Africa, he explored the spiritual and political dimensions of religious leadership as envisioned by Iman Khomeini and Ayatullah Khamenei. The event was hosted by the Cultural Centre for the Islamic Republic of Iran.
The title of the presentation was "Religious Legitimacy and Moral Authority of Leadership in a faith Governed Society".
His talk offered a deep dive into the foundational concept of religious democracy, a governance modeled that harmonizes divine values with public participation. Citing Imam Khomeini's doctrine of Wilayat al-faqih, he emphasized that leadership legitimacy is derived not from popularity but from jurisprudential authority, piety, and divine trust.
Central to the presentation were the five characteristics of legitimate religious leadership:
- Taqwa (God - Consciousness)
- Justice
- Knowledge of Shariah
- Service over supremacy
- Accountability to both God and the people.
Dr. Hassan challenged the entire community, especially youths to champion leadership that begins with spiritual reforms, civic compassion and unwavering justice.
He concluded by reminding the audience that true leadership is not an avenue for control but a divine trust (Amanah) to uplift the oppressed and unify the Ummah.
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