Topical - the resurgance of Islam is a concern internationally and politically

Considers the political management of Islam under authoritarian rule during the transition to democracy (such as under the presidencies of Suharto and Habibie).

Analyses the crucial issues which continue to influence Indonesian politics, including the location of Muslim leaders in shifting power configurations

Reveals Suharto's strategies for suppressing group interests, and unsuccessful harnessing of political Islam against anti-regime forces

Controversially argues that Suharto's mobilization of pro-regime Muslim groups in the 1980s against opposition contributed to a re-politicisation of state-group interest relations after Suharto's concerted efforts to de-politicise group interests