On the evening of August 21, 1952, Imam Abd al-Rahman issued the following statement in a large, significant gathering: It pleases me to seize this happy occasion when representatives of the guardians of independence gather for study and consultation. I assure you and all citizens that since I came into being, my sole concern has been the restoration of Sudan's freedom, independence, and the well-being of its people. The circumstances that the country's cause and its past development have undergone necessitated that we endure much and be patient with much before expressing our opinion on the type of government suitable for the country. However, I was confident that the outcome would ultimately stem only from the will of the Sudanese people. Now, after thoroughly discussing the matter with the leaders of the Umma Party and other men of mine, and after careful study, it has become clear to us that the republican system will achieve the country's best interests, the well-being of its people, and their complete unity and understanding under the banner of independence. Since the democratic republican system is an authentic system in Islam, our tolerant and upright democratic religion, I welcome the democratic republic as a system of government in Sudan once it achieves its independence and regains its full sovereignty. I support the decisions of the Umma Party in this regard and hope this will be a strong reason for removing division and uniting efforts for Sudan's independence. Peace be upon you, and God's mercy.

Abd al-Rahman al-Mahdi Thus, the Umma Party's opinion on the system of government was determined: the Islamic democratic republic. This became a decisive and important resolution in the party's constitution and a specific goal to strive for. This historic stance by Imam Abd al-Rahman was a great political victory for the Umma Party and an effective silencing of the rumors spread by political opponents.

We recall on that immortal day that Imam Abd al-Rahman told people that those who thought I was seeking to be king of Sudan did not know me. I seek no personal gain or gain for my children from independence; rather, I am repaying a debt owed to this noble people who stood with my father, Imam al-Mahdi, peace be upon him, shedding precious blood until the banner of religion was raised and independence was achieved in the face of overwhelming enemy forces armed with the latest means of death and annihilation.

With the Southerners In line with the objectives of engaging the Southerners, by placing them among the politicians, tribal leaders, and sultans, he defined the type of republic he envisioned for the country, dispelling any accusations of religious fanaticism or reactionism. He assured them that by Islam, which the majority professes, he meant adherence to virtuous morals in public conduct and dealings, which is what all heavenly religions call for.

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