Islamic scholar Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has voiced strong opposition to recent suggestions that repentant insurgents and secessionists should be put to death, arguing that such measures fly in the face of both international law and religious doctrine.
Gumi expressed these views in a social media update on Friday, responding to a move by lawmakers earlier in the week. Those legislators had pushed for the federal government to abandon rehabilitation programs for former terrorists in favor of immediate prosecution for those involved in criminal and terrorist activities.
The cleric stated that taking the lives of those who have already surrendered—whether they are combatants, secessionists, or prisoners of war—is ethically flawed and a violation of established legal and spiritual norms.
He further cautioned that the International Criminal Court (ICC) is keeping a close eye on these matters, warning those advocating for such executions to weigh the potential legal and religious repercussions.
Gumi contended that using the same methods as terrorist factions by killing supposed foes undermines moral standing and fails to provide a viable solution to ongoing conflicts.
He underscored that the approach to tackling insecurity should not be driven by emotional reactions.
Gumi stated: “Killing repentant Insurgents and secessionists is against religious and international law. So also prisoners of war. ICC is listening if you don’t fear Allah. Where is morality? It’s the same logic terrorists employ to kill all others besides them. Emotions don’t win a war.”
During its session on Tuesday, the Senate had decided that individuals culpable of terrorism and organized crime ought to be prosecuted without delay, rather than undergoing rehabilitation. They argued that this shift is essential to ensure justice and bolster public trust in the national criminal justice framework.
This resolution was introduced as part of a broader effort to mitigate the escalating security challenges facing the country.
