Dos and Don’ts in Electoral Competitions

Electoral competition is an inseparable part of elections. The principle of systematic and regulated electoral competition, to ensure its health and constructive role and prevent its negative consequences, is accepted by all rational individuals and political systems. What distinguishes it is the intellectual and value foundations governing political systems and their dominant culture. This article, using a descriptive-analytical method and library-based research, argues that in the Islamic political system, the political activities and competition of parties and political groups should take place within the framework of the Islamic value system. This framework considers electoral competitions Based on adherence to the law, ethics-centeredness, rationality, value-centeredness shape the prerequisites for healthy electoral competitions. Conversely, behaviors such as instigating conflicts and crises, engaging in factionalism, undermining opponents, hurling insults and accusations, blurring lines with enemies, prioritizing party and faction interests over national concerns, fostering opposition and denial of others instead of healthy competition, and making unrealistic and unlawful promises are viewed as the drawbacks of electoral competitions.