What did Khomeini's constitution do?

What did Khomeini's constitution do?

• A. A theocracy with democratic elements, with the Supreme Leader's absolute powers, laws based on Islam, abolition of prime minister position, judges guided by Islamic principles, and establishment of the Expediency Council
• B. A liberal democracy with full separation of religion
• C. A secular republic
• D. A federal parliamentary system

Answer: (A)

The main idea tested is that Khomeini’s constitution created an Islamic Republic that blends religious rule with elected institutions. It establishes a theocratic framework in which a Supreme Leader holds ultimate authority over the state, including the executive, legislature, judiciary, and armed forces, grounded in the idea of velayat-e faqih (guardianship of the jurist). Laws are based on Islamic law, and the judiciary is guided by Islamic principles to ensure conformity with religious precepts. Yet there are democratic elements: elections select the president and parliament, and other bodies operate within a system that still requires legitimacy from religious authority. The constitution also set up the Expediency Council to resolve disputes between the parliament and the Guardian Council, ensuring a pathway for legislation that aligns with Islam. Additionally, reforms in 1989 abolished the prime minister’s post, consolidating executive power more directly under the president and the clerical leadership, reinforcing the balance of power that centers on the Supreme Leader.

The main idea tested is that Khomeini’s constitution created an Islamic Republic that blends religious rule with elected institutions. It establishes a theocratic framework in which a Supreme Leader holds ultimate authority over the state, including the executive, legislature, judiciary, and armed forces, grounded in the idea of velayat-e faqih (guardianship of the jurist). Laws are based on Islamic law, and the judiciary is guided by Islamic principles to ensure conformity with religious precepts. Yet there are democratic elements: elections select the president and parliament, and other bodies operate within a system that still requires legitimacy from religious authority. The constitution also set up the Expediency Council to resolve disputes between the parliament and the Guardian Council, ensuring a pathway for legislation that aligns with Islam. Additionally, reforms in 1989 abolished the prime minister’s post, consolidating executive power more directly under the president and the clerical leadership, reinforcing the balance of power that centers on the Supreme Leader.