The system of government revolves around the Sultan as the source of executive power. The 1959 Constitution states that power of appointment to the Councils is exercised by His Majesty. The Religious Council is responsible for advising His Majesty on matters relating to Islam. This is dealt with in Part II of the Constitution, which lays down that the religion of Brunei shall be Islam according to the Shafeite sect. The head of the faith is His Majesty.
Religious freedom is safeguarded by the Constitution.
The Privy Council advises the Sultan in relation to the exercise of the prerogative of mercy, to the amendment or revocation of any of the provision of the Constitution and the award of honours. The Legislative Council is provided for in the Constitution to exercise a scrutinizing role over legislation. However, due to reasons of State, the Legislative Council has not met in recent years and legislation is enacted through Royal proclamation. The Council of Succession determines the succession of the throne in the event of that need arising. The order of succession is determined by the Constitution and arrangements for a Regency are similarly laid down.