In the Islamic Republic of Iran, the notion of participating in elections has long been promoted as a cornerstone of governance, ostensibly reflecting a commitment to democratic principles.
Yet, beneath this veneer lies a reality far removed from democratic ideals, where the most critical decisions are made by an unelected authority. This paradox underscores not only the deceptive nature of the regime’s claim to democracy but also the inherent fragility of its power structure. The widespread disenchantment and anger simmering within Iranian society have recently been compounded by the exposure of documents revealing rampant inefficiency, corruption, and fraud among the nation’s purported representatives, transforming speculation of an election boycott into a definitive public stance.
History of Disillusionment
Since Ayatollah Khomeini’s death in 1989, Iran has seen a series of presidential and parliamentary elections that, despite the changing roster of candidates and the bombastic titles of political factions, have failed to materially improve the lives of Iranian citizens. Successive governments have presided over a decline in living standards, even as they maintained a relentless crackdown on dissent. Promises of reform and freedom from figures such as Mohammad Khatami and Hassan Rouhani have fallen flat, leaving the populace disillusioned with 45 years of religious dictatorship.
In 2017, a nationwide uprising crystallized this disillusionment into a singular demand for systemic change, rejecting the false dichotomy of reformists and principalists that has long perpetuated the regime’s hold on power.
The Leak of Corruption
The recent actions of Ghiam Sarnegouni, a dissident group, have brought the regime’s corruption into stark relief. By hacking and releasing sensitive documents from the Majlis, they have unveiled the luxurious lives of parliament members contrasted with the dire poverty faced by much of the population. Reports of exorbitant salaries and bonuses for parliamentarians have ignited public outrage, especially against the backdrop of economic hardship where over 30% of Iranians live below the poverty line, and retirees struggle with insubstantial pensions.
Legitimizing Repression and Mismanagement
The revelations have underscored the parliament’s role in facilitating the IRGC’s control over various sectors, including the automotive industry, and in passing legislation that prioritizes repression over the welfare of the Iranian people.
The leaked documents also shed light on the deeper mechanics of corruption within the government, implicating figures such as Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf in significant financial scandals.
The Verdict of the People
With the upcoming elections, the Iranian populace is confronted with a stark choice. However, the widespread call for a boycott and the daily chants of “Death to Khamenei!” in the streets reveal a people yearning not for reform within the confines of the current regime but for a fundamental change. The revelations of corruption, the mismanagement of crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic, and the enduring economic and social grievances have galvanized a movement not just against the sham elections but for the overthrow of a regime that has long lost its legitimacy in the eyes of those it claims to represent.
As Iran approaches another election, the true vote of its people is being cast not in ballot boxes, but through their voices and actions demanding change, signaling a pivotal moment in the nation’s quest for freedom and dignity.
MEK Iran (follow us on Twitter and Facebook), Maryam Rajavi’s on her site, Twitter & Facebook, NCRI (Twitter & Facebook), and People’s Mojahedin Organization of Iran – MEK IRAN – YouTu