Muaviyya

In the Shia doctrine, Muawiyya’s governance is often criticized for two main reasons: his use of theological propaganda and his role in the marginalization of Ali’s family. His regime systematically employed coinage and public messaging that distanced the authority of Ali and his descendants from the narrative of Islamic leadership. This manipulation of religious texts and historical accounts is perceived as a betrayal of the principles of Islam, which espouses justice and moral integrity.

Moreover, Muawiyya’s actions during his rule facilitated a culture of oppression for those who followed Ali and his family. The Shia community recounts various instances where adherents of Ali were persecuted, imprisoned, and executed during Muawiyya’s caliphate. The most emblematic of these tragedies would occur later during the Umayyad period, particularly during the tragedy of Karbala. Yet, even prior to this, the systemic disenfranchisement of Ali’s followers can be traced back to Muawiyya’s policies.

The establishment of the Umayyad dynasty also correlates with the promotion of a dynastic system of governance, a departure from the more egalitarian and consultative principles espoused during the time of the Prophet. This shift not only transformed the political landscape of the Muslim world but also contributed to the theological rift between Sunni and Shia Muslims. In the Shia worldview, the divine right to leadership rests with the Prophet’s family through Ali and Fatimah, making Muawiyya’s rule a direct affront to this belief.