Uthman issued the following directive to the persons responsible for administration in various parts of the dominions:
"After glorifying and offering all praise to God Almighty, it may be stated that Allah requires the administrators to be the well wishers and protectors of the people. The administrators have not been vested with power merely to collect taxes from the people. In Islam the position of an administrator is that of a protector and not a mere tax collector. A time will come when the administrators will concentrate on the exercise of power and would overlook their obligations to the people. That will be the age of tyranny. I3ear in mind that your main obligation is to study the problems of the people, and-help them in the solution of such problems. See that a proper equation is maintained between the rights and duties of the people. Every body should perform his duty, and at the same time he should be assured that he would have what is due to him. Also keep an eye on the enemies. See that such subversive activities, if any, are suppressed, but whatever promises are made, even with the enemy, should be respected".
