Posted: 10/27/2004 8:22:35 AM EDT
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Would it be safe to say that the majority of power is in the hands of the Ayatollah? and that the President is more of a figurehead? Thanks! |
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Yep. Switch religions to Christianity though, and a lot of people on this board would like to follow their example in our country. Check out the last paragraph of this story: www.washtimes.com/world/20041027-121030-7792r.htm |
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I don't think the president is completely without power, but his power is certainly limited whenever the Ayatolla's choose. For instance they have "elections" - but the religious leaders can pretty much disqualify anyone they don't like from running - which happened in the last election, where a huge number of the "reformists" were prohibited from running. |
thanks DK, that was my understanding as well 
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The ruling council of mullahs is allowed to overturn anything that any other part of the government does. The ruling council is not an elected body; it is appointed by existing members. Khameini is the head. Consider them to be sort of like the Supreme Court, but with fewer restraints and more activist judges. In addition to their official powers, they also control the Basij militia, which are basically thugs armed with clubs who go around beating/killing anyone who makes too much noise. |