This will be a short blog to present my humble proposal for the debate between Constitutional Monarchists and Republican. It has come about in the best/worst norroz messages blog http://iranian.com/main/blog/david-et/best-and-worst-nowruz-messages and some other places.
I just think we should be able to honor the institution of Monarchy for its historic and cultural value to Iran. Iran has been a monarchy for almost 100 percent of its existence and this deserves to be there. I think most secular republicans who wish a parliamentary republic or federation are not necessary against the Monarchy. They just don’t want to take anything away from democracy by having an UNELECTED Monarch with some responsibilities, even if they are only theoretical or ceremonial responsibility.
I think the solution is to INFORMALLY recognize the institution of Monarchy in the future Iran costitution. BUT explicitly state that it has no role in Iran’s future government. This is an important distinction because it means Monarchy is saved as part of Iran’s CULTURAL heritage but not in any governmental capacity, not even as ceremonial head of state.
This would be a very creative solution. The Monarch would still get state visits and be an object of intrigue and pride. It would be like having access to living heritage of Iran. I think most people can support this role for a Monarch, even those who hated the Shah.
Thanks for reading.
– Daniel/Melbourne
