This chapter explores how political leaders in Muslim-majority countries navigate the tension between Islamic teachings that place sovereignty with God and populist claims that authority belongs to “the people.” Focusing on Mahathir Mohamad (Malaysia), Nawaz Sharif (Pakistan), and Recep Tayyip Erdoğan (Turkey), it analyses how each leader uses religious references to support their claim of representing the Muslim public. Mahathir emphasised Malay identity and Islamic values to defend his leadership against “enemies” of Malay interest while presenting himself as a moderate reformer. Sharif relied on development projects and religious symbolism to appeal to conservative voters, especially when challenging liberal or military opponents. Erdoğan stands apart by developing a consistent and wide-reaching religious populism that defines loyalty to Islam through loyalty to himself. The chapter shows that while all three leaders use religion to strengthen their appeal, their methods differ based on their countries’ political systems and shifting alliances. Religion, in each case, becomes a flexible tool in their populist strategy.