Khalifa Uthman bin Affan - Muawiyah's advice

On return to Madina, Muawiyah saw Uthman. He said that although on the occasion of the Hajj the seditionist had not been able to declare any grievance, that did not mean the end of their opposition. He feared that they would resort to other means to harm Uthman.

Muawiyah suggested that Uthman should accompany him to Syria. He said that the people of Syria were devoted to the Caliphate and the Caliph would have an atmosphere of peace there. Uthman said that as the Caliph of the Holy Prophet, he could not leave the city of the Holy Prophet.

Muawiyah observed that in the alternative he should be allowed to send some Syrian force to keep a guard on the Caliph. Uthman said that the presence of the Syrian force in Madina would be an incitement to a civil war, and he could not be a party to such a move.

Exasperated Muawiyah said, "My next suggestion is that in case you are murdered I should be authorized to demand Qasaas for your murder." Uthman said that he agreed to the suggestion and in case he was murdered, Muawiyah was free to demand vengeance for his assassination.