The Supreme Leader's View of the Majlis

The Supreme Leader's View of the Majlis
09/12/2009

Introduction

The Majlis

Imam Khomeini (r.a.) and the Majlis
The Position of the Majlis
The Majlis: The Symbol of Religious Democracy
The Majlis: The Symbol of Steadfastness and Power

Characteristics of the Majlis

Religion-Based Majlis
Populist Majlis
Active and Efficient Majlis

The Priorities

Protecting the Values of the Revolution
Improving Efficiency
Making Use of All Potentialities
Comprehensive Outlook on the Laws and Bills
Representing the Underprivileged
Detecting the Essential Issues Afflicting the Country
Economic Issues
Social and Cultural Issues
Fighting Corruption
Preserving Unity
Preserving Peace
Logical Collaboration with Other Government Branches
Majlis and Its Overall Policies
Majlis and Research
The Supervisory Role of the Majlis and the Role of the Supreme Audit Court
Neglecting One's Duties as an MP

Characteristics of MPs

The Criteria for Election

Mandatory Characteristics
Negative Characteristics
Goals to Be Pursued By MPs
Possible Flaws

Elections

The Importance of Elections

The Importance of Taking Part in the Elections

Safeguarding the Country and the Islamic Revolution
People's Duty
People's Duty When Electing MPs
Providing Suitable Conditions for Participation in the Elections

How to Stage Elections Properly

Forming the Majlis in Due Time
Enthusiastic and Informed Participation
Proper Electoral Campaigns
Legal Supervision over Elections
Political Stability
The Presence of People with Different Views in the Elections
Compensating For the Negative Consequences
Mid-Term and Runoff Elections
The Necessity of the Presence of the Youth
Doubts over the Involvement of the Islamic Revolution's Guards Corps (IRGC) In the Elections

The Guardian Council

The Importance of the Guardian Council

Maintaining Islamic Rule
Guaranteeing the Legitimacy of Elections

The Criteria for the Guardian Council's Supervision

Observing the Law
Qualification
Trust
The Need for Protecting the Individuals' Reputation
Plots Against the Guardian Council

Political Competition in the Majlis

The Rules of Competition
Avoiding Tension
Unity among Political Parties

Enemies' Plots against the Elections

Opposing the existence of elections
Opposing the Presence of People in the Elections
Doubts Over Election Results

Majlis and Its Cooperation with Other Branches

Cooperation among Government Branches
Cooperation between the Majlis and the Three Government Branches
Cooperation between the Majlis and the Administration

The Supreme Leader's View of the Majlis

Introduction

The Majlis truly enjoys a prominent position in our government. It is the house of the nation and, as our magnanimous Imam said, it is the essence of the nation's virtues and is in charge of all affairs. The Majlis is the manifestation of our national grandeur. It can reveal our national and Islamic grandeur to the world. It helps promote our public interests. It is the laws made at the Majlis that prepares the ground for the officials to progress. In fact the Majlis is one of the greatest, most important and most critical paths that the Islamic order must pass in order to achieve its goals. The Islamic Consultative Assembly enjoys such a position.

Our magnanimous Imam Khomeini (r.a.) always used to emphasize the importance of massive turnout in all elections held from the beginning of the Islamic Revolution to the time when His Eminence passed away. If people take part in the elections and insightfully elect qualified candidates with open eyes and vote them into the Majlis, the Majlis will be able to fulfill this great role. It is a fact that in an Islamic community the people's will and votes has and must have a fundamental and decisive role in the general orientation and behavior of the government, which is a prop for the Revolution and the country.

The Majlis

Imam Khomeini (r.a.) and the Majlis

Elections are the gift of Islam to our nation. Islamic rule used to be associated with hereditary caliphate. Our magnanimous Imam (r.a.) taught us election-based Islamic rule. Reinterpreting the Islamic rule, he presented a form of the Islamic government that could be carried out through elections, people's participation and election of candidates – which the essence of Islam – and he managed to actualize this concept in our society.

The government's reliance on the people's votes is one of the arenas in which the people have a role. Therefore, Imam Khomeini (r.a.) remained committed to this element throughout his life. He also reflected this concern in his will and recommended it to the officials and the people. He used to emphasize the importance of the people's participation in the elections that were held from the beginning of the Revolution to his demise. You just have to meticulously follow what the Imam (r.a.) said about the Majlis. Those statements are eternal lessons. The magnanimous Imam (r.a.) used to advise different groups and parties not to fight one another in the Majlis and not to vehemently oppose each other. He used to advise them to argue with one another the way the students of Islamic seminaries do and not to let their arguments reach such a great extent that the enemy would gloat.

The Position of the Majlis

The Majlis is the pillar of our government and the house of the people, and it is an accomplishment of the country and our revolutionary government. The Majlis can reveal our Islamic and national grandeur to the world, and it can help promote public interests. It can protect national security. It can help form a firm barrier against the enemies' aggression and the foreigners' greed. It is the manifestation of the people's will and votes and a means of their decisive involvement in electing those who are supposed to manage the country's affairs and in passing laws that determine the general orientation of the country. As our Imam said, the Majlis is the essence of the nation's virtues. In the Islamic government, the Majlis has a real role in running the country, and proper fulfillment of this role has a deep and decisive influence on the fate and the main orientation of the country. The Islamic Consultative Assembly is the fundamental organ whose stance, decisions and correct, wise and incisive movement will have a critical role in continuing the path of the Revolution and Imam Khomeini. The Islamic Consultative Assembly is, in a way, the most important and the most influential legislative organ in the country. It must also be a fundamental and key center for the Revolution, which must be a firm stronghold for Islam and the Revolution. A good parliament is the key to appropriate actions in a country.

A good parliament will result in a good administration, and through appropriate laws and constant observation, it will lead the Executive Branch towards the right goals that have been set for the country.

The Majlis: The Symbol of Religious Democracy

This Majlis is the manifestation of religious democracy. It is both consultative and Islamic. It is both elected by the people and has an Islamic orientation, which is manifest in various constitutional articles and in the oath the candidates take. This is an unparalleled model.

The Majlis: The Symbol of Steadfastness and Power

The Islamic Consultative Assembly is the manifestation of national unity and solidarity among all parties and ethnic groups with various tastes and beliefs. It is the hope of the government, and it is the manifestation of the nation's power and will. The Majlis is one of the most magnificent manifestations of the Iranian nation's unity. The Majlis must be the concrete manifestation of national power, national grandeur, insistence on financial benefits and fighting with the global and international domineering powers.

Characteristics of the Majlis

Religion-Based Majlis

There is a substantial difference between the Islamic Consultative Assembly and all parliaments throughout the world: our Majlis is Islamic. Legitimacy of the Majlis is because of its observing the divine laws and Islamic ideology as well as being based on an Islamic foundation.

The esteemed representatives are required to be careful enough to prevent parliamentary bills from being opposed to religious laws and to make the bills perfectly compatible with the holy Islamic cannon. The religion, Islam and the Revolution are essentially the same as the laws passed by the Islamic Consultative Assembly and ratified by the dignitaries and religious authorities at the Guardian Council or other centers like the Expediency Council. The Revolution is the same as the laws passed by these centers. If the Revolution is not realized as laws, articles and statutes, it will be a fictitious concept without any standards, and it will be interpreted in various ways. Religion, religious regulations and Islam are the ideology the principles of which have been turned into Islamic laws.

Populist Majlis

From the very beginning, the Revolution has entrusted all power to the people. That is to say, people vote to form the Majlis – where the laws are passed. The Majlis is filled with the individuals who come from among the revolutionary people. The Islamic Consultative Assembly – which is unparalleled in the world in terms of its freedom and independence – is based on populist principles and is, in the true sense of the word, the manifestation of the people's will and rule. And as it is formed on the basis of the people's will, its decisions and it general orientation are also based on the people's will and are in line with their needs.

Active and Efficient Majlis

The Majlis must be effective and active. The simple fact that we have an Islamic Consultative Assembly is not satisfactory for us. The Majlis is where efforts, plans and progress are made. We must find and follow a mechanism through which the Majlis is guided towards this right direction and towards the achievement of goals. One important point for the Islamic Consultative Assembly is that the MPs must be present in the Parliament. This presence must be principled and very punctual, both inside the Parliament and in the commissions. Absences that are not allowed constitute a transgression on the people's rights a breach of the voters' trust. Not even one minute of the time of the Majlis must be wasted. All the time of the Majlis must be used appropriately.

Every moment of the time of the Majlis must be used appropriately. Parliamentary commissions also have a very important duty to perform. Timely presence in parliamentary commissions, working, studying hard, studying about the subjects that are to be discussed in the Majlis, studying the bills, evaluating the bills, consulting with the people whom one needs to consult, and even arguing inside the Majlis before the decision-making stage – whether in the Majlis or in parliamentary commissions – are indispensable. Wise and appropriate legislation necessitates that the MPs use all the time of the parliamentary sessions appropriately. In addition to the time that is spent exchanging views in general parliamentary sessions and parliamentary commissions, the MPs must spend some time studying, thinking and consulting with the experts and take the presence of these sincere experts in the commissions as an opportunity to talk to them. Inside the Majlis, they must fully focus on the task that is being carried out in the Majlis and its commissions.

The Priorities

Protecting the Values of the Revolution

The general orientation of the Majlis must be in line with the goals, mottos and lofty values of Islam and the Revolution. The Majlis is required to demonstrate its devotion to the justice seeking Imam (r.a.) and his path and seize every opportunity to verbally and practically express its hatred of the US domination. The Majlis must be able to stand up to the bullying, greed, intimidation and bribery of global powers and must be able to assess and follow the nation's interests.

Improving Efficiency

The efficiency of our government officials must be ascertained on the basis of the same regulations that are founded on the Islamic cannon and the constitution. There will be no legitimacy in the absence of efficiency. The legitimacy of all of us depends on our doing the duties and our efficiency in doing so. Efficiency requires that we do our responsibilities, know the limits and act within them. The Majlis must be prominent, effective and active. If the MPs and members of the commissions think, come to conclusions and insist on them and make the administration follow suite, then the Majlis will be an efficient one, capable of running the country in the best possible way.

The simple fact that we have an Islamic Consultative Assembly is not satisfactory for us. We must find and follow a mechanism through which the Majlis is guided towards the right direction and towards the achievement of goals.

Making Use of All Potentialities

You must make use all the potentialities of the Majlis. You must not waste even one single day. All the time that is available for Majlis must be used appropriately. I advise all those who are voted into the Majlis to use all the scientific, social and political capacities and all the efficiency of the Majlis in order to serve the nation and strengthen the tall and glorious monument of the Islamic government. In order for the nation to achieve its lofty goals, the officials of the country must work tirelessly, sincerely and devotedly.

Comprehensive Outlook on the Laws and Bills

The laws that are passed in the Majlis must be stable. One of the greatest problems is that laws are passed without enough care and without reference to what has to be referred to. As a result, after a short period of time the laws have to be revised, and thus some of the time of the Majlis is spent on passing new laws.

Having a national perspective on all the regulations and programs ratified by the Majlis is a responsibility that must be fulfilled by all MPs. All regional, local and ethnic tendencies must be evaluated in terms of the national perspective. Instead of shallow, short-lived, ineffective and impractical laws, effective, comprehensive and well thought out laws must be passed by the Majlis. You must not prefer regional interests to public interests. It is a mistake if an MP stands up in a parliamentary open forum and – regardless of budgetary and financial constraints and the priorities and regardless of the plans that the Majlis must normally ratify – says "let's do this for my constituency," so that he or she can later on tell his or her supporters living in the constituency that he or she is working towards the interests of the supporters.

Representing the Underprivileged

MPs must represent all people. They must particularly represent those who need them most at decision-making and policy-making levels of the country, that is, those who cannot make their voices heard and who are suffering more from deprivation.

Therefore, you must first of all consider yourselves as the representatives of the underprivileged. The esteemed representatives often belong to the middle class and they represent millions of people. Therefore, it is expected that there should be a constant relationship between them and the people, especially the underprivileged and the poor. They are expected to properly reflect the sufferings, deprivations and genuine and urgent needs of the underprivileged in the Majlis, which is the house of the nation and on which the people pin their hopes, and they must take this fact into consideration when passing parliamentary bills.

Detecting the Essential Issues Afflicting the Country

These are what I expect from the Majlis: the Majlis must, in the true sense of the word, detect the essential issues afflicting the country and pay attention to the priorities. The MPs – both the individual MPs and MPs as a whole – must see which bill or which law will prove more beneficial to the public or solve their problems faster and in a better way. They must set the passing of such laws as their priority and must compete with one another in this regard. This competition is lawful and appropriate and will be approved of by Allah the Exalted. The people will also feel and understand that they are being served. It would be a big mistake if these genuine demands of the public are treated with laxity, and party and individual demands take the place of national interests. Anybody who avoids doing his or her main duty, shirks his or her responsibilities, and carelessly entertains himself or herself doing something else is a traitor and will be cursed forever.

Economic Issues

I ask the Islamic Consultative Assembly to consider the people's needs, pass laws that facilitates the process of meeting their needs, decrease the amount of political discussions and get down to the critical issues of the country. Today, the country's economy is one of the most important issues that must be considered by government officials. This needs scientific investigation and finding new ways. Government officials cannot solve the economic problems by talking. They must take action and follow things up. They must detect and try to remove the obstacles to optimal production, the completion of the industrial cycle, exports, and investments that are made inside the country. We must take every opportunity to consider such issues as unemployment, national currency value, security, inflation and a number of other issues. Today, finding ways that will lead to an improvement in the economic conditions of lower socioeconomic classes … is one of the high priority issues, and it behooves the MPs to seriously consider this issue. It is unlawful to spend the funds and the national budget on extravagant and unnecessary things. Today, doing things that are not related to the practical aspects of the people's lives is something extravagant.

Social and Cultural Issues

Laws that lead to cultural growth and help produce wholesome cultural conditions are one the high priority issues, and it behooves the esteemed MPs to pay special attention to them.

The people have always supported the candidates who are faithful, devoted, justice-seeking and truthful and who diligently make efforts for the country's grandeur and independence. You must appreciate the people's trust and uphold these qualities in the Majlis. Protecting the reputation of this nation and this Revolution and trying to observe the obligations that help us make proud, honorable and powerful appearances on international scenes (is sometimes even more important than passing laws).

Fighting Corruption

Corruption, discrimination, and social differences are the means that the enemies use to cause problems in the country. We should confront these means. In Islamic rule, all executive decisions are based on justice, and all government officials must make persistent and sincere efforts in order to administer justice in society. Those who do not place social justice high on their list of priorities and give primacy to other things, in fact, ignore something that society needs most.

The esteemed MPs must pass laws and remove the gray areas that prevent the Judiciary Branch and the police from fighting windfall gains. You MPs are one of the pillars of this fight. The day I brought up the subject of fighting corruption, I expected the Islamic Consultative Assembly to step in courageously so that I was no longer forced to follow up the issue on my own. But unfortunately it did not happen. They did not do it, but you can do it.

Preserving Unity

The Islamic Consultative Assembly is the manifestation of national unity, solidarity and harmony among various groups, ethnicities, tastes and beliefs. Preserving unity, affection, cooperation, and unanimity in the Majlis are undoubtedly top priorities for the Majlis. The esteemed representatives of the nation in the Islamic Consultative Assembly must take extra care not to – God forbid – spread disappointment in society with their statements in parliamentary forums. Rather, they must be the verbal and practical manifestation of national solidarity.

I do not think there was anything that our esteemed Imam Khomeini (r.a.) stressed more than unity. We must preserve this as a sign of respect to our Imam (r.a.) and his soul. We must therefore consider it as a goal and try our best to achieve it at all costs. The Islamic Consultative Assembly can be a very good manifestation of this respect. Today, the only solution for the afflictions of this country is for the three government Branches to follow organized plans in order to achieve the goals set by the government and in order to ensure well-being for the people. It is up to everybody living inside the country to exert increasing efforts to bring about unity.

Preserving Peace

The Islamic Consultative Assembly can act as the source and manifestation of national solidarity and general peace and trust, or it can, God forbid, act as the source of discord and a cause of tension for hearts and minds. Any move or address in the Majlis which leads to discord and conflict or apprehension for the public will be against the nature and the orientation of the Majlis and will constitute an act of treachery against the Imam (r.a.) and Islam. If the MPs act like that, they will be analogous to a lawyer in a court of law who represents nobody and who has unjustly occupied a position he or she does not deserve. All the comments, addresses and bills in the Majlis must be in line with the efforts to foster more solidarity among the people.

The MPs must preserve and help improve the graceful atmosphere in the Majlis and not let it be ruined. The MPs must engender a general sense of dynamism and peace in the country and plan their acts and speech in a way that they can portray a model of wholesome political behavior imbued with impartiality and tolerance. This is the most tangible gift that the MPs can give to the people who have voted them into the Majlis. When the signs of piety, truthfulness, adherence to moral values and sense of responsibility are observed in the discussions held in the Majlis, the whole country will be imbued with these good qualities. Today our MPs must help create such a positive atmosphere in the Majlis that future corrupt members are naturally rejected. That is your duty today.

Logical Collaboration with Other Government Branches

It is upon our parliament to logically collaborate with other government branches. Such collaboration should be based on unanimity. This responsibility is best fulfilled when it is accompanied by exercising legal supervision and institutionalizing a sense of accountability in other government branches. These are among the duties of the Majlis.

Majlis and Its Overall Policies

The Twenty-Year Strategic Plan is, by Allah's favor, the basis of the organized movement of our government, our nation, and the Islamic Consultative Assembly. I should ask the honorable government members and the Islamic Consultative Assembly – who are both responsible for carrying out the Five-Year Strategic Plan for reconstructing the country – to pay special attention to this issue. The implementation of the overall policies adopted in article 44 of the Iranian Constitution requires the introduction of new legislation, and sometimes the revision of the current laws. It is upon the government and the honorable Majlis to cooperate with each other in this regard.

Developing, following, and accelerating the process of implementing the strategic plan should be considered as important. The idea that some people could act on the basis of their own conceptions should be abandoned. Personal interpretations and conceptions must be within the framework of the strategic plan – not outside the framework. This should be regarded as important, and abandoning the plan should be considered as illegal. If there are any shortcomings in the plan, you should overcome those shortcomings. Otherwise, we should all stick to it as a framework for our duties.

Majlis and Research

I advise the honorable MPs to make use of expert knowledge in the various sections and commissions of the Majlis. I also advise the honorable MPs to reflect on and carefully consider the different bills and plans that are presented to the Majlis. The Majlis Research Center is an important section of the Majlis. The thoughts and opinions of intellectuals and elites should be properly used in this section.

Establishing relations with authorities in scientific and practical areas and utilizing their valuable experience and thoughts will contribute to the enrichment of the Majlis which is thankfully made up of expert and knowledgeable members.

The Supervisory Role of the Majlis and the Role of the Supreme Audit Court

Most of our laws are good ones, but they are not practical. And this is because they cannot be properly enforced. If our MPs keep a watchful eye on law enforcement officials – in a just and fair manner and by observing the limits set by God – this shortcoming will be eliminated or at least partially remedied. Besides cooperating with the government, the Majlis must also lead the government onto the right path. And the Majlis should exercise constant supervision by exercising all its legal rights.

You should take the realities into account when electing government officials, planning the budget, legislating, or formulating plans. The officials in charge of the Supreme Audit Court should also take the realities into account. The Supreme Audit Court must be taken very seriously. It is a very important organization. It is a part of the Majlis and has a responsibility to make inquires as well. The issue of allocating the budget and judging the performance of the organizations is one of your most important duties. You must not neglect this duty.

Neglecting One's Duties as an MP

Outsiders may penetrate the Majlis just like any other organization. The Majlis is a part of the government and acts as a complement to it. The Majlis is not a place for the presence of those who are against the government. Frustrating words and actions which would foment discord are regarded as a betrayal of Islam and the Imam (r.a.).

If, God forbid, one of our MPs said something untrue which infused the public with agitation and worry, and insulted or slandered others, it would be regarded as a very serious crime. The same would be true if an MP said something in the Majlis which revealed the country's secrets or infused the public with disappointment and frustration.

Characteristics of MPs

The Criteria for Election

Mandatory Characteristics

We have specified special conditions, in our Constitution, to be met by the Leader, the President, the MPs, and the ministers. These are the criteria that would make one eligible to undertake those responsibilities and to assume the responsibility and power that is given to one by the people and the law. What is most required of the MPs is that they should believe in the government, in Islam, and the Islamic Revolution. Another responsibility is to make efforts to carry out their responsibilities and missions in the best possible way. If such requirements are met, one can ignore other things, provided that nothing illegal is done.

Political awareness, bravery and courage in dealing with different matters, and an awareness of the different issues both inside and outside the country are required of our MPs. The MPs should be politically aware, and have a sense of responsibility towards political matters. Despite being gifted with wisdom and efficiency, the MPs should also be brave, pious, self-conscious, and fair.

We need experts in the Majlis. We are not short of experts in our country today, yet piety should be the basic criterion. The MPs should be pious, should adhere to the principles of the Islamic Revolution, and should render services to the nation. They should have a positive background, and should be well-qualified and organized. They should also have a good reputation and pay special attention to the youth. All MPs should have a revolutionary orientation, and be full of hope, energy, and exuberance. The MPs should be faithful and committed and make efforts to defend the nation's independence and grandeur. They should be pious and efficient, defend the independence of the nation, and believe in our magnanimous Imam (r.a.) and his path. They should be determined, self-assured, and reliant on God. The MPs should be efficient, brave, and sympathetic and be willing to serve this nation. They should pay attention to the nation's beliefs, the Revolution, the people's lives, and the future of the nation and its dignity. They should be willing to shoulder this great responsibility, and be able to preserve the power that this nation has gained through adhering to the principles of the Revolution.

Negative Characteristics

You should stay vigilant so that corrupt people and those who only support the interests of the well-off and foreigners do not enter the Majlis. Those who accept bribes, are tempted by foreigners, and are intimidated by the policies and propaganda of foreign countries should not enter the Majlis. Those who support the interests of the US and shake the foundations of Islamic thought in the country in the name of freedom and liberalism should not be voted into the Majlis.

Those who are corrupt – whether financially, morally, politically or ethically – cannot be suitable representatives for the nation. Those who take advantage of their position and are negligent of their Revolutionary and parliamentary duties, and those who plot against the government and try to undermine the different organizations are not suitable candidates. Those who have obviously and practically proven to be opposed to the principles of the Islamic Republic should not be voted into the Majlis.

Observing moral principles is a vital need for the MPs. Those who feel beholden to others and want to fulfill their moral obligations towards others in the Majlis are not suitable MPs. The MPs must not, God forbid, bow down to those who do not believe in the government. Neglecting moral principles, pursuing personal goals, and having sensual and political motives are not acceptable.

Goals to Be Pursued By MPs

There are two sides to being an MP. This means that the issue can be looked upon from two different angles. One may consider one's position as an MP, and one's contact with government officials as a privilege. One should not seek to take advantage of such a position. We should look upon our position as MPs as a duty and an ideal opportunity to serve the nation. This is another perspective – to enter the Islamic Consultative Assembly and try to contribute to Islam and serve the nation while putting one's capacities in this regard to the divine and public test.

Do not consider these four years as a period that can help you improve your future financial status. Do not consider this four-year term as a period that will contribute to your future financial status. Instead, devote these four years to serving the nation, and Allah the Exalted will reward you in return. "And whatever things you have been given are only a provision of this world's life and its adornment, and whatever is with Allah is better and more lasting." [The Holy Quran, 28:60] whatever you gain in this world will last only in this world which will come to an end in the twinkling of an eye. This is not limited to money alone. The opportunities, the duties, and the positions that we hold are also the same and will end soon. Being an MP also falls in the same category.

Being an MP is a blessing from God, and one should be grateful to God for this blessing. Being trusted by the people is also a blessing from God. The ultimate goal should be God's satisfaction. "So whatever you are given is but a provision of this world's life, and that which Allah has is better and more lasting for those who believe and rely on their Lord." [The Holy Quran, 42:36]

Being an MP is more important than any other job. And the value of one's time in the Majlis is even higher than the value of acquiring knowledge, let alone making financial gains or earning money for the future. This is the best act of worship you can do. Therefore, no one should worry about failing to fulfill some of their religious duties or about failing to go on a pilgrimage after entering the Majlis.

Possible Flaws

You should work sincerely and in a devoted manner. Try to work for the sake of God. Find out what your duties are, and also what it is that will make God satisfied with you. Try seriously to find out your duties towards God so that you are not blinded by worldly desires.

One should be afraid of possible flaws. Government officials, including the honorable MPs as well as the officials of the judiciary and executive branches should be careful to keep themselves away from the vices which are common among government officials in non-divine and on-democratic governments. Such vices as overindulgence in extreme wealth and comfort, engaging in illegitimate conspiracies as well financial and administrative corruption, arrogance, and inattention to the people, their needs, their presence, and their will must be avoided. Forming harmful cliques and getting involved in partisan politics and similar issues must be avoided. Following non-divine traditions, reviving such traditions and inattention to Islamic and revolutionary principles must be avoided. You should stay vigilant in this regard. If someone is to fight corruption, he should be very careful so that he does not fall in that trap himself. You should be very careful in this regard.

Elections

The Importance of Elections

It has always been emphasized in our Constitution as well as in the teachings of our magnanimous Imam (r.a.) that a government is nothing without the support of its people, their will, and their votes. Islamic democracy, which forms the basis of our elections and is rooted in justice and human beings' divine duties, is not just a contract. All humans have the right to choose and to determine their fate. This constitutes the meaning of elections in our country and Islamic government. This is much more advanced, meaningful, and deeply-rooted than what currently exists in Western Liberal Democracy. In our country, we have elections in the real sense of the word. This is not the case in many so-called democratic countries. In these countries, elections are held under the influence of the wealthy and the powerful. Elections are held under the influence of such people's will.

Elections are the symbol of an Islamic movement within the country, and an attractive manifestation of public presence. They are the manifestation of people's presence, justice, and national power in all countries. Elections are one of the most important manifestations of solidarity and the most effective way for every person to actualize his goals, wishes, and ideals. Elections can be the means of bringing security and authority to our country. They can make our nation and our executive officials stronger than before in confronting various global challenges. Elections can rejuvenate the Islamic Republic more than before. Enthusiastic elections can open new doors to our people. Elections are one of the most important events both on the international stage – before the eyes of the outsiders – and on the domestic stage. They are one of the most essential events for our country's progress. Elections provide the link between the people's thoughts and votes and the executive branch.

The Importance of Taking Part in the Elections

Safeguarding the Country and the Islamic Revolution

One of the most basic issues to be considered by everyone is that of maximum participation by the people. One of the most important measures of democracy is how actively people participate in elections and similar national events. All people throughout the world as well as political figures and analysts believe that the most powerful political system is the one with the highest number of participants in the elections. Voter turnout shows the power of a political system. The less the public participate in the elections, the less democratic that government would be considered by the people of the world. The more the number of the people who vote, the stronger the Majlis will be. The more the people vote, the more efficient our Majlis will be. This would empower our Majlis to serve the nation better. Participation in the elections is in fact a sign of voting for the country's independence and also a sign of devotion to the Islamic Republic and the Leader.

Those candidates who are voted for will have to make crucial decisions. A single representative's vote could determine the destiny of the country, a certain group of people, or the economy. Therefore, no one can ever doubt the effect his vote will have on the results of elections. The people should know that they reap what they sow.

Some people may not participate in the elections in protest at why certain things have not been done in the country. Our response to such people is that they should have taken part in the elections to vote for their favorite candidate – the one whom they thought could do what they wanted. That way, what they wished could have been actualized. Our people should not let the elections lose their glory for the sake of their own interests. Every one should take part in the elections. Of course it is not important if those who hold grudges against Islam do not vote in the elections.

People's Duty

Asking people to take part in the elections is not aimed at opposing the enemies' propaganda. Even if people take part in the elections, the enemies will continue their propaganda attacks. Every one should take part in the elections. Elections and the presence of the people on the scene are both a duty and a right for the people. Voting is an Islamic, national, and revolutionary duty. It is a duty that is rooted in our conscience. It is also a political, moral, and divine duty. Taking part in the elections is a divine obligation. The fact that the people should defend their rights warrants such a presence. In an Islamic system, it is the people who decide. Every individual has the right to vote in the parliamentary elections. No one can decide not to exercise this right. This is because the destiny of the system is dependant upon exercising and asserting this right. Voting is a duty.

People's Duty When Electing MPs

Voters should put aside all considerations and not stand on ceremony when voting. They should seek Allah's satisfaction. They should do a lot of research in order to elect the most qualified MPs in the real sense of the word. People should exercise maximum vigilance when voting. They should pay a great deal of attention when electing their favorite candidates. You can form an efficient Majlis by exercising vigilance and care. If you have identified the qualified candidates, go and vote for them. But if you cannot identify the most qualified candidates, then you should consult the people whom you trust. They can provide you with some helpful advice. Those who are going to take part in the elections should seek to get closer to God by voting for the qualified candidates. Those who cast a ballot aiming to strengthen the foundations of the Islamic Republic and to fulfill their duty, and those who vote for a candidate whom they think is the most qualified, will be rewarded by God. The final choice they make may not be correct. However, it is they who should decide. If people vote to foster divine values, they will be rewarded doubly by God.

Providing Suitable Conditions for Participation in the Elections

People will participate in the elections enthusiastically if they feel that their representatives deal with their problems caringly and truly carry out their responsibilities. They will eagerly take part in the elections if they see that the administration officials, who are approved by the MPs, seriously carry out their duties and managerial responsibilities. This is how we should pave the way for the nation's presence in the elections.

The government officials should carry out duties in the best way. If people see such efforts, they will be encouraged to take part in the elections.

I request all the three government branches – the MPs as well as the executive and judiciary officials – to try to maintain a balance in the country's political atmosphere so that people will take part in the elections in a stable atmosphere. The people are eager to take part in the elections. What frustrates them is some of the upsetting events which happen among the government officials.

How to Stage Elections Properly

Forming the Majlis in Due Time

You should try to stage the elections even better than you did in the previous terms. Elections should be held in due time, without even a single day's delay. Forming the Majlis in due time during each term, is indicative of the fact that the efforts of the nation and those who serve the nation – trying to pave the way for holding better elections – have pleased God.

Enthusiastic and Informed Participation

Improper elections are not only those in which the results are rigged. Proper elections are those which are freely and legally held – those in which people take part with enthusiasm. Proper elections are those which are staged enthusiastically by all the people as a religious duty. Free elections are those which are truly indicative of the people's votes. Elections can be said to have been properly held if the results are truly representative of the people's votes and opinions, and if efforts are made to increase the degree of awareness among the people – so that the participants will make the right choice. The Islamic Republic can be assured of moving towards its goals and ideals if, by Allah's favor, there is maximum public awareness in the elections to choose the most pious and qualified candidates – those who deserve to be the representatives of this nation.

Proper Electoral Campaigns

The general atmosphere during the elections should be a healthy one. The atmosphere of the electoral campaign should be different than that of the common propaganda which is broadcast in the world. The electoral campaigns should be run by observing moral limits. Such campaigns should be launched without deceiving the people or accusing the other candidates. Political differences or differences of opinion are a natural phenomenon in the elections. There are no barriers against healthy electoral competitions, but vilifying one another, degrading the country and its sympathetic officials, and upsetting the people's minds are not acceptable to us. Raising doubts in the people’s minds about the elections is not acceptable. Such acts should be abandoned. The people should consciously reflect on the issue, make their choice, and then express their opinions through their votes. This is the true and Islamic form of elections in which everyone consciously pledges their allegiance to the Islamic system. If held properly, elections are the manifestation of public devotion, and this is indeed very important. This is a prerequisite to the proper staging of the elections. The honorable candidates who are present on the scene should not disregard the values of the Islamic Republic in their electoral campaigns. They should refrain from citing false statistics. They should speak to the people with utmost honesty, and should not undermine the people's national unity. They should not say anything that would undermine our national unity. They should not say anything that would undermine our national unity only to attract the votes of a particular group or party. They should not make promises which they cannot fulfill. The candidates' promises should be within the framework of the Constitution and based on the current resources available in the country. They can promise the people that they will exert maximum efforts, by relying on God and the people, to take charge of the country's affairs and push ahead with their plans. The candidates should not run costly campaigns. Neither the candidates nor those who support them should be extravagant in their electoral campaigns. The officials in charge are required to carefully deal with any reports of extravagance in electoral campaigns. If, God forbid, some people exceeded the legal limits and used public funds to advertise for certain candidates, they should be introduced to the officials in charge and prosecuted. The results should also be reported to me.

Legal Supervision over Elections

Some people make accusations against governmental organizations. This is an unlawful practice. Governmental organizations including the Interior Ministry – which is in charge of staging elections – and the Guardian Council – which is the trustworthy supervisor of elections – have their own responsibilities and regulations. Both the executive branch and the executive bodies supervising the elections as well as the organizations which are run under their supervision should act in accordance with the law. The law should be the yardstick. Everyone is required to obey the law. I have full trust in the organizations which are in charge of holding the elections. They are all making serious efforts and doing their best. I have full trust in all the organizations in charge.

Political Stability

An atmosphere of political turmoil and disgust is harmful to our elections. The three government branches should try to maintain a balance in the country's political atmosphere so that people will take part in the elections in a peaceful atmosphere. Now that we are about to hold the elections in our country, we should try to have a calm, peaceful and relaxed atmosphere so that the people will be encouraged to take part in the elections. The atmosphere should be relaxed and everyone should be on the alert in this regard. All the organizations which are in one way or another involved in the elections – including the honorable Guardian Council, the Interior Ministry and the disciplinary forces – should take this issue into consideration. Those who are in charge of this sacred event should be in full agreement with one another and cooperate with one another in this regard. I hope that there is a maximum level of agreement among those in charge of holding the upcoming elections.

Security and peace should be maintained in the country in order to hold the elections properly. There are some people who are after opportunities to put the country in a state of tension and turmoil. There are probably some people who are trying to cause turmoil in the country during the election time. Even if they do not succeed in doing so, they will try to create mental tension and turmoil. Those who do so are not devoted to the country and the people's interests. Those who do so do not pursue the interests of the people. Rather, they are trying to serve the interests of the foreigners. Therefore, if some candidates are deemed qualified for the elections and some are not or if some of the candidates are voted for but others are not, people should not be provoked to protest at why some candidates were disqualified. Such acts are seditious. Seditious acts are in fact aimed at promoting the interests of the arrogant powers and causing turmoil in the country.

I advise those who try to cause turmoil in the country to stop troubling the people. There are some people who imagine that elections cannot be held without hatred, bearing grudges, and slandering others. This is not the case. It is possible to stage enthusiastic and free elections without these. Everyone should try to contribute to the proper staging of the elections.

The Presence of People with Different Views in the Elections

The different political groups should take part in all the elections and decision-making events across the country. These events are not limited to a specific group or political party. Everyone should take part in the elections. This is what we know from experience. This is for the country's benefit and a source of progress for our people. It is a benefit to the country if people from different groups and with different political views take part in the elections. In this case, the results of the elections will be accepted by everyone. It really makes no difference which candidates with what political orientation are elected. It makes no difference which group wins the majority of the votes. We should provide the suitable conditions for more political groups to take part in the elections. Not even one single group, even in a small town, should feel that they are left out of the elections. All the people should feel free to vote for their favorite candidate.

Compensating For the Negative Consequences

Despite all the positive aspects and the enthusiasm and excitement characterizing the elections, tensions are usually caused among different groups and people during every electoral term. Such tensions are created among different political groups as well as among those with different thoughts and political orientations. Even those who follow the same line of policies may suffer such from such tensions. The tensions which are caused during the elections should be resolved after the elections. This negative consequence should be dealt with after the elections. This cannot be done alone by a specific organization or authority. The responsibility should be shouldered by everyone. The responsibility falls – in the first place – on the shoulders of those who rank highest.

Mid-Term and Runoff Elections

The importance of the second round of elections is no less than the fist round. The importance of the second round can be said to be greater than the first round due to certain reasons. Our dear people should regard participation in the second round of the elections as an act that is as important as participation in the first round. They should take part in the elections and not think that runoff elections are of no consequence. The enthusiasm and great presence of our people should be manifested again in places where runoff elections are held.

The Necessity of the Presence of the Youth

Our youth should look upon participation in the elections as a great and righteous deed. The youth who take part in the elections for the first time celebrate carrying out this political duty for the first time. Such a celebration happens on a day when they go, for the first time, to vote for a candidate – either an MP, a member of the city council, or the president.

Doubts over the Involvement of the Islamic Revolution's Guards Corps (IRGC) In the Elections

Just because some Basijis say a few things here and there – in Tehran or some other city – there are some people who say: The IRGC is manipulating the election results and things like that. What do these words mean? Of course as our magnanimous Imam (r.a.) said, the IRGC, the Army, and the Armed Forces, in general, should not interfere in political affairs. However, this does not mean that a great force like the Basij does not have the right to take part in the elections in a suitable way. Why do some people mix different issues up? The IRGC members should act wisely on all fronts like the other groups of people. Of course what was said and meant by the late Imam – the fact that IRGC members should not interfere in political affairs – still remains in force. This does not mean a change of policy on our part as some might imagine. It is not the case that the Imam told the Armed Forces not to enter the political arena and that we are doing the opposite now. This is not the case. We follow what the Imam said. But what some people say is not what was meant by the late Imam. Those who hold moral values, our faithful youth, and the best youth of our country should participate in the elections. They should be present in the polls and act as supervisors. They should stop others from violating the law. These acts are not against the law.

The Guardian Council

The Importance of the Guardian Council

Maintaining Islamic Rule

The issue of the Guardian Council is a great and unique issue in our Constitution. It is not logical to think that a system which has its own principles, goals, and values could continue to fulfill its responsibilities in the absence of a system responsible to guarantee the legitimacy of the policies which are pursued by the government. The legitimacy of the Majlis is dependant upon obeying divine rules. In an Islamic system, all the parts and elements fall in the same category. The honorable Guardian Council which protects and supervises the legitimacy of the laws will contribute to the perfection and the Islamic nature of this system on a daily basis.

Guaranteeing the Legitimacy of Elections

The responsibility of the Guardian Council to supervise and guarantee the accuracy of elections is among the most important responsibilities assigned to the Guardian Council in the Constitution. Without the supervision of the Guardian Council, and without verifying the accuracy of the elections, the very issue of elections will be questioned and will lose its legitimacy. Supervising the elections is a very important issue. This is because the accuracy of the elections will result in the legitimacy of the Majlis, which will in turn result in the legitimacy of the law. The supervision of the Guardian Council is based on the law and the Constitution. The supervision of the Guardian Council – which is also accompanied by the right to make appropriate decisions in due time – is aimed at preventing disqualified candidates from occupying critical positions in the Majlis and other crucial decision-making centers in the country. This kind of supervision is useful. We should pay no attention to the propaganda which is broadcast in this regard. The important issue for every person and organization is to know what their responsibilities are and what they do. The Guardian Council and what it does during the elections should reflect the nation's trust.

The Criteria for the Guardian Council's Supervision

Observing the Law

We have stipulated certain conditions for the Leader, the president, the ministers, and the MPs in the Constitution. These positions can only be occupied under the conditions stipulated. These are the necessary criteria, which if met, make one qualified to undertake those responsibilities and to exercise the power which is given to one as a result.

Supervision should be exercised on the basis of the law and the regulations specified, not on the basis of personal views and interests.

You – the members of the Guardian Council – should never pursue personal interests. It should not be the case that you judge, based on your personal view, that disqualifying a particular candidate will be harmful to the Majlis. No considerations should prevent you from implementing the law. All your decisions should be evaluated against the law and the regulations specified. Personal views should not influence your decisions. Political and party orientations should not be allowed to come into play. The criterion should be the law. Those who criticize us and try to find faults with the Guardian Council claim that the decisions of the Guardian Council are based on the political orientation of its members. This is not true. Some people may of course have some misunderstandings at times, which is a different issue, but the yardstick is the law.

Qualification

Qualifying or disqualifying the candidates is a duty. Deprived of this right, there will be no other rights to be asserted [by the Guardian Council]. Verifying the candidates' qualification is among the responsibilities of the Guardian Council, and this right is to be strongly exercised. But the criteria for qualification should not be too tight. This means that the qualifications which are deemed essential for our MPs should be specified. It must be specified how important it is to meet the conditions for qualification – such as devotion to the Constitution and Islam. The issue could well fall on a hierarchy of importance varying form more important to less important. Intense devotion – which means even small mistakes are unacceptable – may not be a necessary requirement for the MPs. But this is a necessary condition for the Leader or other high-ranking officials. A certain degree of such devotion is necessary to enter the Majlis. This is what we refer to as the necessary qualifications. The limits should be truly specified and observed.

There might be certain weaknesses in some people, but it is not necessary to exaggerate those weaknesses. It is not possible to make accusations against the people for small mistakes. We should abandon the habit of exaggerating trivial issues and being narrow-minded. The criteria should be truly specified and understood. Then the candidates should only be qualified or disqualified on the basis of these criteria. These criteria should not be overlooked, or neglected.

Trust

You must consider others qualified unless the opposite is proven. That is to say, just because you were not completely certain at the time of vetting is not a firm basis to disqualify a certain candidate. On the contrary, you must give the candidate the benefit of the doubt. All those who have decided to become candidates must be considered qualified unless the opposite is proven, in which case you must not listen to anybody who tries to persuade you to act against the proven fact. However, unless it is proven that the candidate is unqualified, he or she must be given the benefit of the doubt. In this case, there is no need to verify the candidate's qualification in other ways. I believe this is a totally acceptable vetting process as far as MPs are concerned. This is especially true of the candidates whose qualifications have been verified in previous elections.

The Need for Protecting the Individuals' Reputation

Those who have been disqualified by the Guardian Council have been rejected on the basis of the law. This does not mean that they are evil. The law has specified some conditions and the Guardian Council – quite truthfully – qualifies some and disqualifies others according to these conditions. For those who are left out, it means that they did not meet the conditions. They might well be very righteous people. Of course, there are some evil people among them as well. People's reputation should be protected. The reasons for disqualification should not be publicized or revealed. The candidates should not be slandered. Of course there are some people who might ask for the reason why some nominees were disqualified. If there is any information that can be revealed, it is not wrong to do so. But if there is any information that should not be revealed, then the reason should be kept secret. People should not be disgraced by revealing secret information about them.

Plots Against the Guardian Council

The Guardian Council is one the main government bodies that is constantly targeted by the negative propaganda on the part of the enemies of the Islamic Republic – they will probably never stop such attacks. They are dissatisfied with the existence of this important and influential council. One of the points they constantly mention is the issue of the Guardian Council's supervision or the issue of disqualifying certain candidates. Their purpose is to undermine the authority of the Guardian Council and to prepare the ground for those who are opposed to the late Imam (r.a) and the Islamic Republic to penetrate the legislative branch. The Guardian Council acts as a barrier to the achievement of these goals.

Political Competition in the Majlis

The Rules of Competition

There should be no pointless arguments in the Majlis. If the Islamic Consultative Assembly turned into a place for some candidates to settle individual matters, then the rights of the devoted MPs would be violated. Matters should be discussed in a manner similar to that of discussions held in Islamic seminaries. Imam Khomeini (r.a) used to advise the MPs to argue in this way. He advised the MPs not to let their differences of opinion reach a level that would please the enemies.

Avoiding Tension

Political turmoil is harmful to the country. It will be harmful to the country if some people raise a new issue everyday and draw public attention to such fictitious matters. Such acts are harmful to the country. The country's political atmosphere should be calm so that the government and the officials can carry out their duties. Under political tension, even the easiest tasks will be very difficult to do. No one is allowed to heighten political tensions in the country. One of the worst mistakes for political activists would be to try to create division and find fault with one another. There are some people who not only engage in political arguments themselves, but also try to make believe that the Leader and other organizations are also engaged in such arguments. This is not true.

Unity among Political Parties

Although the different political parties that have been formed are in fact a kind of faction and I do not intend to misinterpret their function – every political group has its own slogans and set of beliefs – if you delve deep into the matter, you will realize that they all pursue the same goal and support the same ideals. It will be a great achievement for the country and the political parties themselves if they settle their differences. It would be useful if the different political groups – those who are in the Majlis and other places – met every now and again to discuss the common points which they share. How many points are there over which you do not agree? Are those differences more important than the commonalities? Is there anybody who would say so? Who could possibly make such a claim? The country's two political wings should establish new borders. Firstly, they should narrow the gap and be more friendly towards one another. Secondly, they should widen the gap between themselves and the outsiders.

Enemies' Plots against the Elections

Opposing the existence of elections

The enemies want no elections to be held in our country. If they had an influence over the people or the political groups, they would try to prevent the staging of all elections. Why is that? This is because they are seeking proof for the claim that there is no democracy in Iran. If we hold elections in our country, their plots will be foiled.

Opposing the Presence of People in the Elections

There are some people who are trying behind the scenes to cause turmoil in the country during the elections. Even if they cannot cause any turmoil, they try to disturb the public mind and create fake crises. These people do not intend to serve the country. They are not devoted to the nation. Rather, they are outsiders who try to betray the country. The Iranian nation should stay vigilant against these plots. The main issue is the opposition of these people to Islam. Their opposition is mainly aimed at the Islamic Republic. What is the purpose of the propaganda which is broadcast from radio programs across the world about the elections in our country? What they say is definitely aimed at getting our country into trouble. They know that the presence of people in the elections would strengthen the foundations of the Islamic Republic. They intend to undermine the importance of the Majlis. If they can do something to prevent the people from taking part in the elections – which are the manifestation of the people's presence – they will do so. They are even ready to provide the necessary funds to prevent our elections from being properly held. They try to play down the importance of the elections in order to minimize public presence in the elections.

Doubts Over Election Results

Besides being dissatisfied with the people's presence in the elections, the enemies try just as much to play down the nation's success if elections are held successfully. If they do not manage to do so, they will say: the elections were rigged or that there has been discrimination against certain groups in the elections. They will try to question the Guardian Council over why some candidates were qualified or disqualified. They will say these things under any circumstances. Even if we stage elections once a week rather than once a year, they will say these things at the end. The enemies are opposed to enthusiastic and free elections with a huge turnout.

Majlis and Its Cooperation with Other Branches

Cooperation among Government Branches

The enemies are longing to see discord develop among the three government branches. The officials should stay vigilant and not let this happen. The government branches should try to promote the success of other branches. Today, the cure for many of the country's problems is that the three government branches should cooperatively pursue the plans which have been organized to achieve the goals of the Islamic Republic and to provide comfort for the people. One of the means of ensuring practical success and gaining national satisfaction is to maintain cooperation among the different organizations and the three government branches.

Cooperation between the Majlis and the Three Government Branches

Logical cooperation with other government branches is a duty upon the Majlis. Such cooperation should be based on unanimity. This duty is best carried out if it is accompanied by exercising legal supervision and institutionalizing accountability among other branches.

Cooperation between the Majlis and the Administration

Naturally, there are close bonds between the Majlis and the administration. To form such a relationship on the basis of the right principles is one of the most important duties of the honorable MPs. Passing laws that will oblige and enable the administration to correctly manage the country's affairs as well as supervising the enforcement of the law is one of the duties of the Majlis. This necessitates cooperation and unanimity between the Majlis and the administration. It also necessitates that the Majlis support the administration. The administration and the Majlis should move hand in hand. The Majlis should help the administration. This cooperation should be based on mutual understanding so that the country can make progress and not fall behind. This relationship should be such that it would allow the administration to rely on the Majlis when dealing with great tasks. This will enable the administration to make use of the wisdom and prudence of the MPs to carry out its difficult duties.

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