Leadership of Islamic Government by Faqih; Obligation or Guardianship?

Excuting the precepts connected to government has been the responsibility of faqihs who enjoy the requirements since Shiah fiqh was first formulated. Although there is a consensus on this issue, two main principles can be noticed regarding the way faqihs view this issue: the principle of "running a government" on the basis of non-litigious affairs, and the principle of "guardianship of government". During the occultation period – i.e. absence of Imam – the faqih's establishing of Islamic government can be explained in terms of one of the two stated principles. Those who advocate the principle of "guardianship of government" say that faqihs are appointed by the Infallible Imāms to govern the society and they offer evidence to prove the guardianship of faqih during his responsibility as a political leader. As for those who advocate the principle of "running a government", they hold that the faqih has no guardianship and his responsibility is only running non-litigious affairs.