Introduction

The interplay between the maverick Libyan state and its Islamist opponents represents one of the most interesting case studies in contemporary Africa. This chapter seeks to shed light on the complex relationship between political Islam and the State by providing an analysis of the interaction between the Libyan Islamic Fighting Group (LIFG), or the al-Jama’a al-Islamiyyah al-Muqatilah fi- Libya, and the Libyan state. Following a brief introductory section, a historical background which situates the emergence of Libyan Islamists is provided with a focus on the impact of the rise of Muammar Gaddafi to power in 1969. The origin and development of LIFG will be addressed in its local and global contexts tracing the establishment of a clandestine jihadist organization inside the country along with the presence of Libyan jihadists in Afghanistan during the Soviet occupation. These inextricably linked factors shaped the vision and strategies of Libya’s Islamists as local opponents and global players in the wider global arena. This chapter highlights the interplay between the LIFG and the Gaddafi regime which illustrates the shrewd strategies that have enabled the Libyan strongman not only to survive Islamist opposition but to thrive in spite of their efforts to oust him.

Defining Islamism

In order to enable an examination of the LIFG in relation to Islam, several basic definitions are required. It must be borne in mind that such concepts are highly contested, and as such, there exists significant differences of opinion and interpretation with regards to their meaning and content.

In the first place, a distinction should be made between ‘Islam’ and ‘Islamism’; the former denotes the religion, while the latter can be seen as the use of the religion as a political ideology, which is largely associated with those who are depicted as ‘Islamic extremists’ or ‘Islamic fundamentalists’ (Aggad & Botha 2006:62). As an ideology, particularly on an international level, Islamism conflicts with traditional notions of state authority, as it provides a form of authority that is justified in terms of a transcendent morality that exists beyond the level of the state (Van Wyk 2005:64; Aggad & Botha 2006:63–65) provide a useful exposition of several key elements that characterize Islamism: firstly, an embracing conceptualization of Islam, whereby Islam is believed to simultaneously represent a religion, a way of life and a form of government;