Since the 27th Amendment is on its way, the Islamic Ideological Council could have taken the opportunity to expand its powers too!
Justice Kayani was presiding over the case challenging the IIC’s advisory opinion. While hearing the matter, he humorously observed that had the Council proposed some amendments of its own, it might have gained even more authority under the new constitutional changes.
Justice Kayani further noted that the court could possibly deliver its verdict within this month, because, after the amendment, even that authority might not remain with us. Addressing the Council’s representative, Justice Kayani inquired. Isn’t the Islamic Ideological Council primarily an advisory body? And who exactly approached you to seek this opinion?
He added that if the court intervened too deeply, it could set a new trend in the country, reminding that Parliament is sovereign and possesses its own constitutional authority.
The court questioned whether the IIC could offer advice to any entity other than the Legislature, the President, or provincial Governors. In response, the Council’s officials stated that only the IIC Chairman could provide such clarifications, but since the position is currently vacant, they requested more time.
Upon inquiry, they confirmed that a recommendation for the new Chairman’s appointment had already been sent and that the post would soon be filled.
After hearing the petitioner’s plea to suspend the Council’s opinion, the court reserved its judgment. The Islamic Ideological Council was directed to submit a complete response regarding its jurisdiction.
Finally, the Islamabad High Court instructed the Council to clarify its legal authority and postponed further proceedings until December 4.
