The most noteworthy aspect of the “election game” of the 8th parliament of the Islamic Republic of Iran, was the endeavor of those persons and groups who were active players , to appear as if each possessed an optimal plan. Among those laying claim to power, each faction sought to use any means, including character assassination, in order to present their choices as the most effective. But in fact neither the option of participation, nor that of boycott could be considered intelligent and true options for the Iranian society, and the promoters of none of these options, even should those backing participation win some of the coveted seats , had an effective program for the day after the elections.
The Iranian people were – again – faced with choosing between bad and worse.
Twenty nine years after a revolution which carried the slogans and goals of independence and freedom, the 8th parliamentary elections once more made clear, that these ideals lie shattered and have given their place to adventurism and factional fighting of the various forces within the regime. Yet, that the various factions of the regime turned upon each other, was not a surprise; they have always been at war with one another over the division of power, a bigger share of the nation’s wealth and Iran’s natural resources. What was most surprising, was that those opposing forces who have no vested interest in the existing power, entered the yes or no games of these elections with such zeal. A group of those in the opposition were active to bring about a boycott, another group considered a legitimate form of participation and still a third envisioned entering the race, using the support of international courts and instances, should they be disqualified. And a large fourth group, was left undecided and unsure of the choice the should make.
When after twenty nine years, instead of independence and freedom, hanging and stoning are still our daily realities and the only “social security plan” is one which beats , jails and humiliates citizens, the involvement with and much discussion of the political moves of forces standing for other values and options, aided and abetted the illusion of choice. Thus, the 8th parliamentary elections once again proved that any force that considers itself as belonging to an opposition, or as backing change , should instead of becoming entangled in the inner regime war, grasp at real opportunities and take the initiative , spending its time and energy to suggest a people’s alternative. The introduction and encouraged discussion of an effective alternative program can – instead of guesswork concerning the rise and fall of this or that faction – be the best option for the Iranian nation.
We, as part of those forces opposed to the regime and seeking constructive alternatives, should instead of short term tactics, have thought of the realities within our grasp and considered the fate of our people, struggling still more with a life of constant and multi-sourced hardship and poverty, in the aftermath of these “elections”, regardless of the division of seats between those hand picked to run as candidates.
If regime-intern-reformists played the election game right to the end, it is because they have always been part and parcel of the bazaar and broker games of the Islamic Republic, and shared the fruits of belonging to the inner circles, even if now they have been forced into a corner as far as the power to govern is concerned.
Today, it has been made clear that even the “reform from within-the-ruling-circle and from-above” project , has in its endeavor to achieve some changes via election participation and within the exiting “legal” guidelines , reached a dead-end. The power is in the hands of the conservative factions of the regime, and all forces except these factions led by “the supreme leader”, are faced with the question of : where to? Thus, the elections of 8th parliament have made it necessary once more for us all to review our role and effectiveness. For when regime-intern-reformists have no sphere to act within except the free market in which they can still make their personal fortunes, and are clearly held back, where may those of us who opted for a boycott and seek true change stand? Within such a framework – where except for the conservative faction working under the approving eye of “the supreme leader” any faction that thinks differently or at all independently is considered as belonging to the opposition – it is imperative that in order for us continue our efforts, we pin-point a clear political plan and re-evaluate the various forces that can aid the realization of this plan.
The election game of the 8th parliament made it clear once more, that the regime is hungry for power, and longing to further prolong this power.
The people of Iran , however, are hungry for bread and freedom. The real alternative for the people of Iran whose national treasury, natural resources and ancient heritage is being plundered, and whose civil rights are daily stomped upon, can be only reached via a clear and concise economic and political program. Discussion pertaining to participation in or boycott of elections and political posturing can not be an answer to the enormous current socio–political difficulties and the bottomless pit of the bankrupt and haphazard economy of Iran.
With the end of the election game, it is fitting that we begin our New Day (starting this Noruz) , by taking steps towards proposing a constructive and applicable plan.
Women’s Section of The National Front of Iran – Europe
* Aseman Moghadam
* Shiva Nasr-ramzi
* Shiva Nojo
