Jamaat-e-Islami is preparing to establish an advisory council composed of experts and intellectuals from outside the party to contribute to policy formulation and strategic decisions. Party officials have given preliminary approval to the initiative, though details regarding the council’s structure, membership criteria, size, and specific responsibilities remain under development.

Abdul Halim, assistant secretary general of Jamaat-e-Islami, confirmed that the proposal will be presented for further discussion at the party’s upcoming Majlish-e-Shura meeting, which is expected to take place in late November or early December. The idea of creating such a council was initially introduced during a Central Executive Council meeting on June 26. Should the proposal receive formal approval, Jamaat would amend its constitution to incorporate the advisory body.

The intended council aims to include professionals with expertise in fields such as economics, law, education, politics, religion, and natural resources, in addition to writers, academics, and literary figures. “The concept of forming an advisory council has received unanimous support,” Abdul Halim stated, adding that practical aspects remain to be finalized.

Ahsanul Mahboob Zubair, assistant secretary general and head of Jamaat’s central publicity department, noted that informal advisement currently exists within the party but that the new council would provide an official platform to recognize and consolidate these contributions. He emphasized that this structure would help experts and supporters outside the party’s formal ranks feel valued and more directly involved.

Jamaat’s constitution presently requires individuals to become Rukon, or oath-bound members, to participate formally within its organizational hierarchy. This requirement limits the party’s ability to engage supporters who agree with its political views but prefer to remain outside the formal membership framework. The advisory council would offer a mechanism for such individuals to provide expertise and guidance without undertaking organizational responsibilities.

Abdul Halim highlighted that the council’s establishment aligns with Jamaat-e-Islami’s broader constitutional reform efforts following the July uprising. These reforms include potential enhancements in transparency, financial accountability, and organizational restructuring. The proposed changes are currently under review by the amendment committee, the Central Executive Council, and the Majlish-e-Shura.

Through the advisory council, Jamaat-e-Islami aims to leverage professional insight to strengthen its policy development and contribute to national progress. “If someone can offer guidance that benefits the country, it will be a gain for us, for the party and for the country as well,” Abdul Halim said.