A report broadcast from Iran has claimed that the country’s highest religious body, the Assembly of Experts, has elected Mojtaba Khamenei, son of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, as the country’s new supreme leader. This information was given by Iran International on Tuesday quoting sources.
Responsibility assigned to Mojtaba
According to the report, the assembly handed over this responsibility to 56-year-old Mojtaba after internal discussions. It is being told that Mojtaba is the second eldest son of late leader Khamenei. He has been seen as a possible successor for a long time. His name was already discussed in political circles, but the news of his formal selection has attracted the attention of the country and the international community. However, independent verification of this claim is not publicly available at present.
The political debate may intensify regarding the appointment of Mojtaba. The Islamic Republic has been presenting itself as a more just governance model than the monarchy. In such a situation, if the transfer of power happens from father to son, then it can be seen as dynasticism by critics. This is likely to raise questions on the ideological commitments of the government.
What was alleged in the report?
The report also alleges that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) pressured the Assembly of Experts to support Mojtaba. IRGC is an influential military and paramilitary unit of Iran, which is considered to have a deep influence in the politics and economy of the country. In the year 2019, the United States had declared this organization a terrorist, after which it has also been in the news at the international level.
The post of supreme leader is considered very powerful in Iran’s governance system. This post plays the role of Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces and has the final say in defence, foreign policy and major policy matters. Analysts say Mojtaba has long played an influential role behind the scenes and has been active in the running of the office of the Supreme Leader.
Mojtaba is considered a middle level religious leader. He also served in the military during the Iran-Iraq War and is said to have close ties to the IRGC. If his selection is formally confirmed, it could prove to be a turning point in Iranian politics.
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