How did Abd al-Rahman al-Mahdi continue the Ansar movement after British conquest?

Following the British conquest of Sudan and the collapse of the Mahdist state, leadership of the movement passed to the Mahdi’s son, Sayyid Abd al-Rahman al-Mahdi.1

Despite the imposition of Anglo-Egyptian rule, Abd al-Rahman al-Mahdi worked to transform the Ansar from a militant revolutionary force into a significant religious and political organization. He maintained the movement's influence by fostering the Mahdist community and overseeing the rebuilding of his father's tomb, which had been partially destroyed during the Battle of Omdurman. Through these efforts, he ensured that the movement remained a potent force in Sudanese society well into the 20th century.12