What is the meaning of the حديث: "Go, for you are the freed ones"? And how does it clarify Islam's concept of retribution (qisas), justice, and dealing with corrupt individuals in the context of the return to power of pillars of former regimes?

After the conquest of Mecca, its people were like captives, but the Prophet (peace be upon him) pardoned them and set them free, and they were called "the freed ones" (al-Tulaqaa'); this was due to his dealing with them with kindness in return for their wrongdoing. This pardon was generally established, but the hadith, in its exact wording and context, does not have a sound chain of narration.

Forgiveness and overlooking are prescribed and praiseworthy matters, and forgiving wrongdoers is closer to piety. However, forgiveness is solely for the one whose right has been violated, and it is not permissible in matters concerning the Hudud (prescribed punishments) of Allah the Almighty. Rights of individuals can be forgiven, but the rights of Allah the Almighty and the rights of society cannot be forgiven once the matter has been brought before the authority.

Therefore, when dealing with someone who has done wrong, a distinction must be made between public rights, which aim to achieve the overall interests of society, where leniency should not be shown.