TRUE LEADERSHIP
Al-Hajjaaj bn Yoosuf asked Khaalid bn Safwaan: 'Who is the chief of the people in Basra?' The latter answered: 'Al-Hasan (Al-Basree).' Al-Hajjaaj said: 'How come a former slave became a chief? He said:' The people are in his need in their religious affairs and he is not in need of their mundane things. I have not seen any notable person in Basra except that they flock his religious classes to hear and write knowledge from him.'
Al-Hajjaaj said: 'Indeed by Allaah, that is the true leadership.'
Jaami Bayaanil Ilm: p.69