Sincere Advisor to Hazrat Uthman (ra) during the Dissension

When the rebellion and dissension began during the Khilafat of Hazrat Uthman (ra), Hazrat Ali (ra) would offer sincere advice in order for it to be quelled. On one occasion, Hazrat Uthman (ra) asked Hazrat Ali (ra) what the real reason was behind the revolt and rebellion and also how it could be quelled.

With utmost sincerity and in a candid manner, Hazrat Ali (ra) stated that all the unrest and turmoil was due to the dishonesty and injustices committed by his governors. Hazrat Uthman (ra) stated, “When choosing my governors, I looked to the same qualities that Hazrat Umar (ra) was mindful of. Yet I do not know why there is a general aversion to them?” Hazrat Ali (ra) stated, “This is correct; however, Hazrat Umar (ra) kept the final verdict under his command and he was so firm in this that even the most rebellious camel in all of Arabia would cry out of anguish” i.e. he would oversee matters stringently. “In contrast, you are overly lenient and your governors take advantage of your leniency and act however they please. They ensure that you remain unaware of their actions. The people think that the governors are simply fulfilling the commands issued by the Khalifa. For this reason, you become the focal point of the reaction to these injustices [committed by the governors].”