The Role of Islamic Political Parties in Islamic Constitution-Making in Pakistan from the Perspective of Siyasah Syar’iyyah

Abstract

This research study examines the role of Islamic political parties (IPPs) in the process of Islamic constitution-making in Pakistan from the perspective of Siyasah Syar’iyyah (Islamic Politic). The study begins by defining SS and outlining its objectives. In order to clarify the intellectual foundations of Pakistan’s creation, the research reviews the historical background of Pakistan, Muhammad Iqbal’s and Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s Address. The study further analyzes the Objectives Resolution, the stages of the Constituent Assembly, and the constitutional developments of 1956, 1962, and 1973. It critically evaluates the efforts made by IPPs for the establishment of an Islamic constitution in Pakistan. The findings reveal that the fundamental objective of SS is the implementation of Allah’s commands on earth and the collective moral and social reform and welfare of the people. The primary objective behind the creation of Pakistan was likewise to establish a state in which Islamic principles would be implemented and the individual and collective well-being of Muslims would be ensured. However, after independence, the ruling elite did not make serious and practical efforts to establish an Islamic system; rather, attempts were made to steer Pakistan toward a secular state. In this context, the religious leadership and IPPs initiated efforts to transform Pakistan into an Islamic state, resulting in the approval of the Objectives Resolution, which affirmed Pakistan’s Islamic identity. The study concludes that the Islamic provisions incorporated into the Constitutions of 1956, 1962 and 1973 were the outcome of these parties’ persistent efforts.