In his book Uthman b Affan, Raza Misri observes that in the caliphate of Uthman there was great discontentment against Uthman on account of the appointment of his relatives. In the course of time the discontent multiplied. If Uthman had wished he could have made amends What happened was that he would repent and would promise the deposition of his relatives, but would do nothing to implement or fulfil his promise. If he wanted to favor his relatives there could have been other ways of doing so. They could have been appointed to less important posts for they were not at all capable of being appointed to higher posts. The times needed the appointment of men of caliber and good record to high office. Many companions of stainless character were available, and if Uthman had availed of their services history would have taken a different course.
