Iran’s Regime Purging in Parliamentary Elections

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Iran’s regime is preparing for sham parliamentary elections in March, with the disqualification of key officials from running for office causing a stir. The Guardian Council spokesperson announced the disqualification of 26 members of the current Majlis and key figures of the regime, a scandal that aims to purge its ranks from officials not entirely aligned with the vision of its supreme leader, Ali Khamenei. Ahmad Alireza Bigi, a member of the Majlis who was disqualified, cited his experience as a commander of law enforcement forces, deputy of the Judiciary, and governor.

Jalal Mahmoud Zadeh, another member of the Majlis who was disqualified, stated that the supervisory committee rejected the qualifications of over 40% of Sunni representatives in the Majlis, resulting in six of them being disqualified. Zadeh, who has been a member of the Majlis for three terms and the head of the Sunni faction in the Majlis for the past 12 years, cited non-compliance with Islam as the reason for his disqualification. He also mentioned the government’s influence in the qualification process, stating that discussions during protests led to his disqualification.

On January 2, regime president Ebrahim Raisi attempted to encourage participation in the elections, but it became scandalous and the regime’s television refrained from broadcasting it. Politicians Mohsen Rafsanjani and Khamenei, who had previously suppressed uprisings, are now concerned about the elections and have been personally appealing to people to vote. On December 27, Khamenei asked a group of women to encourage their children and spouses to be actively involved in the elections. The regime’s television has refrained from broadcasting the announcement, and the session appears to be more ceremonial than practical.

Iran’s President Hassan Rouhani threatened those opposing the purged elections on January 3, 2024, stating that opposition to the elections is against the Islamic Republic and Islam. Despite this, the people of Iran have already participated in nationwide protests, chanting slogans like “Death to Khamenei,” “Death to Raisi,” and “Death to the oppressor,” indicating their commitment to regime change and a free, democratic republic where the people can choose their leaders and destiny.