From CDHR
February 21, 2008
Codifying Shariah Law is Overdue
By Ali Alyami
Shariah law is an arbitrary system subject to any interpretation and implementation by any judge in Saudi Arabia, yet it is also the law of the land. There are many discourses among Muslims as to the origin, interpretation and application of Shariah law. Modernity, globalization and unprecedented economic interdependence demand accountability, transparency, rule of law and independent judicial systems, operated by modern men and women who have diverse religious and secular training. These men and women should either be elected or appointed based on their merits and service to the public.
The politicization and use of Islam as an uncontested ruling tool has allowed for substantial oppression and discrimination against women and religious minorities, as well as the rejection of non-Muslims in recent decades, especially in countries like Saudi Arabia. These are just a few of the multitude of reasons as to why many Muslims across the globe are demanding reinterpretation and codification of the Shariah law. Codification of Shariah would accommodate the modern needs of Muslims and would respect the individual’s basic divine and natural rights. Codifying the Shariah law in Saudi Arabia will resonate throughout the Muslim world. Saudi society suffers from an arbitrary judicial system, which, in the name of religion and Shariah law, is interpreted by religious zealots who designate themselves as the final arbiters of every aspect of the subdued Saudi people’s lives. Saudi Arabia plays a major religious and economic role in human lives worldwide, and with that comes a huge responsibility that cannot be ignored or derailed because of “our religion and traditions.” No one cares about either in this day and age.