You also know that the benefit that would accrue if he gets the position...

You also know that the benefit that would accrue if he gets the position, they cannot be expected from anyone else.” After hearing `Amr, Abū-Mūsa said, “When you say that Mu`awiyah is `Uthman’s ‘wali’, it is not tenable with the sons of the deceased being around. `Uthman’s ‘wali’ is his son `Amr.

How will it be possible for us to overlook the early Muhajirūn and nominate a person as caliph who neither has precedence in acceptance of Islam nor he has any apparent superiority in him to qualify for the position. You speak of his pedigree. If we make that the yardstick for the selection of the caliph, we must look for the progeny of Abrahah ibn Sabbah because he will be from the descendants of the kings who were ruling the entire East and the West of the world!

As far as the questions of benefits are concerned, I cannot take bribes and sell myself! In my opinion, the most suitable person for the caliphate is `Abdullah ibn `Umar! We can perpetuate the name of `Umar by bringing him to the caliphate.” `Amr said, “In that case, my son `Abdullah would be an ideal candidate.

He is a man of learning and piety and has also been a companion of the Prophet (a.s) and he had the privilege of Migrating when the Prophet (a.s) ordered movement of the Muslims to al-Madinah!” Abū-Mūsa said, “But his hands are red with the blood of Muslims! He had participated with you in the unnecessary battles!

I still think that `Abdullah ibn `Umar is the best candidate because he has kept away from conflicts and internecine wars.” `Amr said, “Power can be vested in a person who not only takes care of himself, but has concern for the needs of others as well.” Abū-Mūsa said, “The Muslims have entrusted to us this matter to us after a bloody war.

We shall have to address the issue with due diligence and care, lest some new problem raises its head.’ `Amr said, “Then, tell me what we shall do?” Abū-Mūsa said, “I have one idea in my mind. We shall depose both Mu`awiyah and `Ali (a.s) and leave the choice to the Muslims to decide on the most suitable candidate to be their caliph through a Shūra.” `Amr said, “This suggestion is not bad. I agree with it.” Therefore, both the referees decided to announce this to the delegates.

When both the referees separated after the meeting, Ibn `Abbas told Abū-Mūsa, “O Abū-Mūsa! I feel that the decision you have mutually arrived at, `Amr will not abide by that. He is a very cunning person and he will certainly trick you.