The Islamic Movement: Between Convergence and Dissipation

Written by: Hassan Al-Basir

▪️ It has become imperative to hold an inclusive foundational conference for the Islamic Movement in Sudan that transcends narrow organizational frameworks. This gathering should serve as an entry point for rebuilding trust among the various components of Islamic activism that emerged from the parent movement, uniting platforms, currents, figures, and leaders of the first generation, alongside political forces that share an Islamic frame of reference, as well as field commanders of the Mujahideen. This should take place within an overarching framework that embraces this diversity and restores the movement's capacity for action and influence.

▪️ The absence of institutionalism has created a noticeable vacuum, leading to a monopoly on decision-making by a few, which weakened the organizational structure and affected membership outreach. Furthermore, the absence of a renewed Islamic project capable of addressing societal aspirations, and the decline of intellectual, educational, and social programs, had a profound impact on the imbalances that caused scars and fissures in society—especially considering that the Islamic Movement is meant to lead the awakening toward building the nation with its heritage of values and to protect national identity.

▪️ Therefore, addressing these imbalances does not begin with mutual accusations, but rather with a serious and courageous review of the experience that restores institutionalism and opens doors for participation to everyone. What the current stage requires above all else is the reconciliation of hearts and the removal of the grudges left behind by splits and confrontations. 'If you had spent all that is in the earth, you could not have brought their hearts together, but Allah brought them together.' This verse embodies the true meaning of what the movement needs today to overcome the past with all its negatives in response to the challenges of reality and external targeting.

▪️ In the current landscape, there is a broad movement led by platforms, most notably by young generations who understand the weaknesses and causes of the decline. This movement should not be viewed as a rival, but rather as a new energy worthy of being absorbed into the system of the Islamic Movement in its broader concept and inclusive framework. Therefore, the leadership must transition from the weight of executive work to the realms of educational, intellectual, and social action, acting as an incubator for values and taking the initiative in addressing people's issues.

▪️ The various Islamic spectrums gathering today under multiple names are merely an expression of a deep need to restore the idea of an inclusive Islamic Movement in light of the security, political, and social transformations, and the catastrophic effects left by the war on the state and society. Despite the efforts exerted by the movement's leadership in supporting the state, there is a missing link between the base and the summit that needs organizing and integration. Furthermore, the review requires a measure of courage to acknowledge mistakes. What is needed today is to empower the Islamic current to be an inclusive vessel for all believers who hold faith in the reference of Islam and its values, and then to take this current into society—not as a project for power, but as a project for reform, renaissance, and service to humanity and the nation.

▪️ The future of the Islamic Movement will not be forged by an abundance of slogans nor by invoking the glories of the past; it will be forged by the ability to acknowledge flaws, repair what has been broken, reconcile hearts, renew thought, build institutions, and make room for new generations. Either this convergence will turn into a new beginning for a more mature and expansive movement, or it will remain a mere transient gathering in the face of a reality heading toward dissipation. The opportunity still exists, provided that the spirit of the collective prevails over the tendencies of factions, that the interest of the nation prevails over the calculations of individuals, and that Islam in practice becomes mercy, building, and reform before it becomes a title for an organization.