The Ruling on Participating in Elections

Question:
Is it permissible for a Muslim to participate in the elections that have become prevalent in this age, especially when he knows that the head of state who will be confirmed will apply the Islamic Shari'ah?

Answer:
Elections are not among the procedures of the Muslims; rather, they are among the procedures of the West. When the Muslims appoint a ruler, the one who selects him is the people of authority and responsibility (ahl al-hall wa al-'aqd) among them. The people of authority and responsibility select the ruler, and the rest follow the people of authority and responsibility. This is the system of Islam in the appointment of governors. The people of authority and responsibility pledge allegiance to him; they are the scholars, the princes, and those who have a status among the people. As for the rest, the men and women, the common people, and the tribes, they follow the people of authority and responsibility. Yes.

The presenter:
May Allah send you well