Accountability practice in a waqf institution in Indonesia : the case of Dompet Dhuafa

Abstract

This study aims to address the issue of accountability in a waqf institution. Specifically, the focus of this study is to shed more light on how the Mutawalli (waqf trustee) perceives and discharges accountability in managing waqf. In so doing, an interpretive case study in one Indonesian waqf institution, that is, Dompet Dhuafa, is undertaken. The data were obtained through semi-structured interviews. Other sources of data collection techniques employed along with the interviews include observations and document reviews. Furthermore, this study uses the non-profit and non-governmental organisation’s accountability framework as the main conceptual lens. The framework consists of the mechanisms of accountability and holistic accountability. In addition to the accountability framework, the stakeholder salience theory is also used to understand how the Mutawalli shows accountability to multiple stakeholders. The findings of this study reveal that the Mutawalli’s understanding of accountability in waqf is influenced by its organisational values. It appears that the belief in dual accountability – to Allah and human beings – has strengthened the Mutawalli’s perception concerning the importance of accountability. Despite the fact that the Mutawalli realises the presence of asymmetries in stakeholder salience, the Mutawalli still manages to show accountability to all stakeholders. The Mutawalli believes that showing accountability to different groups of stakeholder requires different mechanisms of accountability. As such, this study concludes that the holistic accountability practised by Dompet Dhuafa is an integrative process. It not only encompasses fulfilling upward and downward accountabilities, but also involves the commitment to preserve its organisational values.