What is the Shar'i ruling on engaging in politics and joining parties, especially those with a secular orientation, and what is the ruling on paying money to join them, and what is the ruling if these parties support a candidate who does not apply Allah's laws?

Working in Islamic politics (siyasah shar'iyyah) is not forbidden; rather, it is a communal obligation (fard kifayah) for which those who undertake it with sincerity and devotion are rewarded. This obligation has been distorted to the point that some consider it synonymous with hypocrisy and deceit. This indicates ignorance of the religion and an influence from Western culture, which separates religion from politics, whereas our religion encompasses all aspects of life. As for policies or ideologies based on atheism, innovations (bid'ah), or forbidden acts, it is impermissible to work within them or belong to them.

The ruling on joining political parties depends on the party's methodology and activities: - If the party is hostile to Islam and allies itself with its enemies, it is not permissible to join it or cooperate with it. - If the party is founded on truth and justice, adheres to the Qur'an and Sunnah, and strives to benefit the ummah, establish Islam, and unite the Muslims, then cooperation with it is obligatory.

It is not permissible to engage with or support secular parties in any way, as they contradict Islam.