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2 Responses to “Iran’s Leading Dissident Cleric, Montazeri, Dies”

1. Shawn says:

   December 21, 2009 at 6:02 PM

   Having spoken to a good friend of mine who has just returned from Iran in the midst of it’s turmoil, he described the situation of the reformists as extremely fragmented. There are communists, monarchists and reformists all protesting against the government together. Although Montazeri has had an important influence on the reform movement, his views are not new. He has been around preaching for human rights since 1979. His outspoken views are what got Khamenei in power in the first place (not to mention Rafsanjani, but that’s a different issue).
   In many respects, Iran’s government is in a very difficult position now, as they would rather silence his death, but his status makes it impossible.
   I would imagine the government being weary now, but I couldn’t see any serious uprise until the reform movement can unify under one leader (Obama style, but I’m in Canada) instead of being the Obama vs. Clinton democrats.

   Soon enough, a leader will spark the uproar necessary to bring about serious change in Iran. Until then, don’t hold your breath.

   What do you think?

   Reply
   • Richard Silverstein says:

     December 22, 2009 at 9:19 PM

     Yes, it’s a very difficult time for the reformers. I don’t know whether the leadership is overly timid or felt it had to avert a civil war. But they have become quite quiescent since June except for sparks of resistance here & there. Perhaps they know something I don’t about the terror that could be unleashed against them if they go too far. Perhaps their holding back caused them to lose the momentum that could have overthrown the regime. Who knows?

     But yes, the reformers need one powerful charismatic figure like a younger version of Montazeri or someone of his caliber.

     Reply