Date:03/07/2009 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2009/07/03/stories/2009070356151500.htm

International

Iran’s reformists unite for long-haul campaign

Atul Aneja

DUBAI: The Iranian authorities have established full control over the streets but the spark for change within the system of Islamic governance established by the 1979 revolution has not been extinguished.

Opposition leader Mir-Hosain Mousavi, who has rejected the results of the June 12 elections which favour President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, said on Wednesday he would provide evidence to substantiate his assertions. Mr. Mousavi said he would be part of a committee of scholars who would “make public documents proving fraud and irregularities in the election,” Iran’s Press TV reported.

Mr. Mousavi’s observations follow Monday’s announcement by Iran’s supervisory Guardian Council which revalidated the results of the elections.

Mr. Mousavi had earlier declined an invitation by the Council to send representatives to observe the random recount of 10 per cent of votes. Two other presidential candidates who were defeated, Mehdi Karroubi and Mohsen Rezai, also did not participate in the recount.

Mr. Mousavi’s statement is part of an effort by the Iran’s reformists, which include former President Mohammad Khatami and Mr. Karroubi, to embark on what appears to be a long-haul movement for change, using legal channels. Strongly supporting the opposition leader, Mr. Khatami said the government had embarked on a “velvet coup against democracy”.

On his website, Mr. Karroubi rejected the legitimacy of the government. “I don’t consider this government legitimate. I will continue the fight under any circumstances and using every means,” he observed.