[islam] the language of peaceful restraint

The Islamists in Mogadishu have organized teams to clean up the city. Young couples take to the waterfront; thousands of children flock to soccer fields in the city centre; hard to imagine that this is Mogadishu, clan against clan and 15 years of anarchy. But over the past three months, the Islamists have defied international expectations in many ways. Not only have they pacified Mogadishu, they also seem to have moderated their message. Instead of a harsh, Taliban, religious horror, as many feared, they have softened their views, at least officially, delivering social services and pushing for democratic elections. Maoist tactic. It will be interesting to observe, after the last warlord has departed this life, if the climate of peace and love continues. Hope so, of course.