DefinePK

Abstract

This study explores the key political, social, and economic obstacles that hinder the implementation of an Islamic system in Pakistan, despite the continuous efforts of religious political parties. Through a historical and analytical review of successive governments from General Pervez Musharraf's military regime to the present coalition government the research identifies major challenges including political instability, fragmented religious agendas, sectarianism, and interest-driven politics. Socially, issues such as lack of Islamic education, the growing influence of Western culture, sectarian conflict, and declining moral values have weakened public receptivity to Islamic principles. Economically, the dominance of an interest-based financial system, persistent budget deficits, foreign debt reliance, and structural weaknesses further obstruct the path toward an Islamic economy. The study concludes that without unity among religious political actors, educational reforms, economic restructuring, and electoral transparency, the dream of implementing an Islamic system in Pakistan will remain unfulfilled. The paper offers strategic recommendations to address these challenges and proposes a multi-tiered reform framework rooted in Islamic values and national interest.