Quoted By:
Sunni Muslims believe that Abu Bakr, the Prophet’s closest Companion, was most fit to lead the Muslim community. Shia Muslims believe that the leader should have been Ali. Ali himself was not dissatisfied with the decision for Abu Bakr to be the ruler, but some remained dissatisfied. Abu Bakr was the first caliph, Ali eventually became the fourth. The theological differences between the two groups came from this political difference. If Ali was explicitly designated by the Prophet peace be upon him, that would imply that Abu Bakr unjustly usurped the right of the caliph.
