Ruling on Rebelling Against Rulers in Democratic Countries

Question: What is the ruling on rebelling against the rulers of democratic countries? By rebelling, I mean demonstrations and sit-ins, and not rebellion with weapons.

Answer: In the name of Allah, all praise is due to Allah, and may Peace and Blessings be upon the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ).

If a ruler is a kafir, then khurooj (rebellion) could become obligatory if the proper conditions are met. These conditions include:

Conditions for Khurooj:

• The ruler must actually be a kafir:
  For example, if he denies the obligations of Salah, Fasting, Zakah, and claims that these are lies in Islam.
• Established proof must be made against him:
  Scholars must advise him, discuss with him, and make a sound judgment that he is indeed a kafir. It is not allowed for a normal layman to make takfeer on anyone.
• Power must be available against the government:
  Governments possess power, wealth, and armies. If such capability is not present, it is not allowed to proceed.
• The benefit must outweigh the harm:
  For example, if millions of Muslims would die by going against the government, then it is not permissible.
• A ready leader must be available from Ahl al-Sunnah wal-Jamaah:
  To be appointed after the removal of the government. Otherwise, there is no point in doing khurooj.

Important Notes:

It is important to note that khurooj is not the way of Ahl al-Sunnah wal-Jamaah, especially in recent times where people go out against governments, engaging in protests involving free-mixing between men and women, chanting, and sometimes even playing music. This is certainly not the Islamic way.

Sadly, the Muslim community has adopted this idea from the West and imitated them.

Conclusion:

If the conditions mentioned above are fulfilled, then khurooj becomes obligatory upon the Muslims, not just merely allowed. However, if they are not met, then it is not permitted.

And Allah knows best.