The Interplay of Islamic Ideology and Political Authority in Pakistan’s Constitutional Framework (1947-1988)

Abstract

This article explores the complex relationship between Islamic ideology and political authority in shaping Pakistan’s constitutional development from 1947 to 1988. While Pakistan's founding as a homeland for Muslims was rooted in Islamic identity, the degree of its influence on governance and constitutional evolution remained contested. Through historical analysis, legislative changes, and ideological debates, the study assesses how Islamic principles shaped state formation, legal frameworks, and power structures. Key milestones such as the Objectives Resolution (1949), the 1956 Constitution, and the 1973 Constitution are examined, alongside General Zia-ul-Haq’s Islamization policies, which intensified the role of religion in governance. The study highlights tensions between democratic aspirations and theocratic tendencies, revealing the lasting impact of Islamic ideology on Pakistan’s legal and political systems. Ultimately, it underscores the persistent struggle to balance Islamic identity with constitutional governance.