Soapbox:

A well-deserved victory

By Nader Fergany

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The Islamic Resistance Movement, Hamas, took power in the occupied territories in free and fair elections. Earlier, the Muslim Brotherhood (MB) made an impressive showing in Egypt's parliamentary elections.

We must congratulate both Hamas and the MB on their achievements. And there are definitely lessons to be learned. The winners are now in a position to show us how much they truly care for the future of democracy in the Arab world. It is easier to win one election, especially when you're running against governments that are tainted with corruption and tyranny, than to keep winning. Hamas and the MB must do everything they can to improve their public image at home and abroad. Both movements have often been unfairly portrayed. Now is the time for both Hamas and the MB to correct that image.

Islam is a crucial part of the cultural and spiritual fabric of the Arab people. Politicians can only ignore this fact at their own risk. The third Arab Human Development Report concluded that Islam does not conflict with freedom and good governance. But we need religious scholars who are willing to reconcile Islamic Sharia with societal and individual freedom. Much of our clerical interpretation was done in periods of decline and despotism. We need to reopen the door wide to interpretation. We need to integrate modern freedom into Sharia. This is a quest in which I believe Hamas and the MB should take the lead.

Victory comes with duties and obligations. The popularity of Hamas and the MB is an outcome of their sacrifices. The MB stood up to a corrupt government and Hamas led a fight against a brutal and racist occupation. People who resent the MB and Hamas are those who are used to winning through forgery and deceit. Those who want to win in fair and free elections must pay the price in advance.